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Source: http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/atom.xml

<?xml version='1.0' encoding='UTF-8'?><?xml-stylesheet href="http://www.blogger.com/styles/atom.css" type="text/css"?><feed xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom' xmlns:openSearch='http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/' xmlns:blogger='http://schemas.google.com/blogger/2008' xmlns:georss='http://www.georss.org/georss' xmlns:gd="http://schemas.google.com/g/2005" xmlns:thr='http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0'><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761</id><updated>2024-03-08T16:08:14.561-08:00</updated><title type='text'>PCS to LinkedInUSAF</title><subtitle type='html'>Flight Deck for all those that have served with and want to continue to help
their fellow Airmen.

MISSION: maintain a strong connection and provide assistance or guidance
to those in need.

CREW: this blog is for prior service or currently active USAF personnel utilizing LinkedIn(tm).</subtitle><link rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#feed' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default?alt=atom'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/'/><link rel='hub' href='http://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com/'/><link rel='next' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default?alt=atom&start-index=26&max-results=25'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><generator version='7.00' uri='http://www.blogger.com'>Blogger</generator><openSearch:totalResults>78</openSearch:totalResults><openSearch:startIndex>1</openSearch:startIndex><openSearch:itemsPerPage>25</openSearch:itemsPerPage><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-116231423858960384</id><published>2006-10-31T08:59:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-10-31T09:03:59.256-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Get to Work! It's Valour-IT US Air Force Team!!!</title><content type='html'>I've joined the fight to get our injured soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines voice activated/controlled laptops! This is a GREAT project lead by the awesome folks over at Soldiers' Angels. You just can't go wrong helping us all make the lives of those who have fought to protect us and have paid the ultimate price - for us. Please, if you have a moment, just click on the link to donate, just to the right near the top of my sidebar. This is a great inter-branch rivalry and we in the US Air Force team are trying to maintain control of the air! So, donate, and give us the fuel to keep the US Air Force Team flying high!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/116231423858960384/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=116231423858960384' title='1 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/116231423858960384'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/116231423858960384'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/10/get-to-work-its-valour-it-us-air-force.html' title='Get to Work! It's Valour-IT US Air Force Team!!!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>1</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-115269018619413001</id><published>2006-07-12T00:40:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-07-12T00:47:31.830-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Please Support Soldier's Angels and Soldier Ride</title><content type='html'>Soldiers' Angels supports Soldier Ride and lends it's support in the way of volunteers and money. (PRWEB) July 7, 2006 -- Wounded servicemen and women cycling across the United States From Montauk, New York to San Diego, California to spread their inspirational message of courage and hope. The brave men and women participating in this event are cycling in support of their injured comrades recovering in military hospitals across the country. All of the participants are provided the adaptive equipment they need to cycle though missing one or more limbs. Soldier Ride is a non-profit organization that raises awareness and funds for our injured soldiers returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan. This organization is 100% non political. It's not about the war it's about the soldiers. Soldier Ride organizes cross country and local bicycle trips used as rehab opportunities for soldiers recovering from major injuries and also to raise awareness. Funds raised go out to such organizations as the Wounded Warrior Project (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org">www.woundedwarriorproject.org</a>) and Disabled Sports USA (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.dsusa.org">www.dsusa.org</a>) You can learn more about us at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.soldierride.org">www.soldierride.org</a> or please feel free to contact Nick Kraus at 516 994 5907. Soldier Ride began in East Hampton , NY as an effort to raise money and consciousness for soldiers who were severely wounded overseas. Last year Chris Carney a local bartender embarked on his second cross-country Soldier Ride, cycling from Los Angeles to Montauk, New York. Soldiers from the current conflict and veterans, both disabled and not, rode with Carney on Soldier Ride. Over the last two years Soldier Ride helped raise millions of dollars for the WWP. These funds are being used to: <ul><li>Purchase thousands of comfort backpacks for wounded soldiers on their return (including guidebooks on discharge from service and entitlement benefits). These packs include such basic comfort items as phone cards, Fresh clothing, Portable CD players and small items that make a big impact for a returning injured soldier.</li><li>Hire full-time benefits counselors at Walter Reed Army Medical Center and Brooke Army Medical to distribute comfort backpacks to amputees.</li><li>Conduct adaptive sporting events and clinics to build self-esteem and independence for those who suffered catastrophic injuries, for example the Breckenridge Colorado Ski Spectacular and our recent Florida bicycle program.</li><li>Develop peer-mentoring programs where rehabbed soldiers can lend support to their newly injured comrades. Organize Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symposia to help the estimated one in six soldiers who suffer from this disorder. Transport soldiers and their families between home and hospital, as well as purchase a van to transport soldiers to functions in the Washington D.C. area.</li></ul> Soldier Ride has received extensive media coverage in The New York Times, New York Post, The New York Daily News, The Cleveland Plain Dealer and Newsday. The project has also appeared on NBC's Today in New York, The O'Reilly Factor, Fox News Radio's Tony Snow Show, HBO's Inside the NFL and CNN's Larry King Live. Several notable people have helped with Soldier Ride fundraising efforts, including Jimmy Buffett, Jon Bon Jovi, Pat Lofaintane, Gary Sinise, Alec Baldwin, Tony Snow, Harris Yulin, Stephen Lang, Bill O'Reilly, Congressman Tim Bishop, Senator Bob Kerrey, and many more. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.soldiersangels.org">www.soldiersangels.org</a> Soldiers' Angels will be hosting the closing ceremonies and beach party for the riders at Semper Fi Park in San Clemente on July 29, 2006 at 3 pm. Adam's Attic, The Bader Band, and Jillian Russell will be performing at the beach party. Mayor Wayne Eggleston and the community are excited and happy to help Soldiers' Angels honor these riders. Please join us in welcoming the riders by lining the streets and showing your support as they ride into San Clemente. Soldiers' Angels is an all volunteer, 501 (c) (3) non-profit based in Pasadena, Ca. Donations to help offset the costs of the closing ceremonies can be sent to: <blockquote>Soldiers' Angels 150 North Loop 1604 West, Suite 108-493 San Antonio, TX 78248 Attn: Soldier Ride</blockquote>Please make checks and money orders out to Soldiers' Angels. You can also donate on-line or adopt a soldier at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.soldiersangels.org">www.soldiersangels.org</a>. Include what your donation is for in the comments section.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/115269018619413001/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=115269018619413001' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/115269018619413001'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/115269018619413001'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/07/please-support-soldiers-angels-and.html' title='Please Support Soldier's Angels and Soldier Ride'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-115103657616979344</id><published>2006-06-22T21:22:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-06-23T09:11:27.813-07:00</updated><title type='text'>21-Day Salute to Honor America!</title><content type='html'>For Immediate Release 6/21/06 Contact: Sara Horn, Publisher <a target="_blank" href="http://AGreaterFreedom.com">AGreaterFreedom.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="mailto:sara@agreaterfreedom.com">sara@agreaterfreedom.com</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://AGreaterFreedom.com">AGreaterFreedom.com</a> Announces 21-Day Salute to Honor America <a target="_blank" href="http://AGreaterFreedom.com">AGreaterFreedom.com</a> subscribers and readers are invited to participate in our first 21-Day Salute to Honor America! In 1975, Congress declared that the period between June 14 (Flag Day) and July 4 (Independence Day) would be recognized as Honor America Days, a time for Americans to publicly celebrate America and the great ideals our country stands for. We want to do our part in honoring America by inviting you to tell us, in 350 words or less, who you think is a Great American – someone you know who is going beyond the norm to make a difference in the life of their country and their fellow Americans. Email us your letters between June 14 and July 4 to be included in the contest. We’ll choose the three best letters out of the ones we receive to receive a special gift, courtesy of <a target="_blank" href="http://AGreaterFreedom.com">AGreaterFreedom.com</a> Send your letters to <a target="_blank" href="mailto:info@agreaterfreedom.com">info@agreaterfreedom.com</a> today! We Can’t Forget New Subscribers! Sign up for our free monthly newsletter and we’ll enter your name into a drawing each week to receive a special gift. It’s our way of thanking you for showing your support of <a target="_blank" href="http://AGreaterFreedom.com">AGreaterFreedom.com</a> by becoming a subscriber. <a target="_blank" href="http://AGreaterFreedom.com">AGreaterFreedom.com</a> Where Faith and Service Come Together The mission of AGreaterFreedom.com is to equip, inform and encourage members of the military and their families through the use of news, feature stories and commentary that will lead people to a more passionate faith in Jesus Christ.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/115103657616979344/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=115103657616979344' title='1 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/115103657616979344'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/115103657616979344'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/06/21-day-salute-to-honor-america.html' title='21-Day Salute to Honor America!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>1</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-114291765080790679</id><published>2006-03-20T21:04:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-03-20T21:28:06.556-08:00</updated><title type='text'>US Military? Illinois? Get Your MBA FREE!!!</title><content type='html'>This is not a scam, I'm not on the take, and yes the title is true! If you want to get your MBA but have been hemmin'-N-hawin' about the cost, or the time, or which school, the answer is right here!: University of Illinois! I was contacted by the Assistant Dean at the University of Illinois, Mr. Robert van der Hooning. They are actively recruiting for candidates to receive a FREE RIDE MBA! And, this offer is for US Military personnel. And, no, not from just today's active duty ranks but from Guard and Reserves as well. There is one hitch (uh-huh, you had that in the back of your head) and it is a small one: you must have been a resident of Illinois during your tour. That means you had to have lived in Illinois (like, you know, the IRS can find you in Illinois via an actual address!) six months prior and six months after your duty/tour. Now, that really isn't a big deal, right?! That is YOUR BIGGEST OBSTACLE to getting an MBA! And, you don't have to pay for the MBA, it is already covered. Get it? Someone's got your six if you can say you had six-before and six-after! Helll-oooo ... are you there ... ??? :) Here is a link that provides the background on this program: <a href="http://www.collegezone.com/studentzone/416_962.htm#eligibility">Illinois Veteran Grant (IVG) Program</a> Here is the quick version of eligibility: <blockquote> To be a qualified applicant, you must: </blockquote><ul><li>Have served at least one year of federal active duty service in the Armed Forces of the United States, unless you:</li><li>served in a foreign country in a time of hostilities in that country, or</li><li>were medically discharged and the medical reason for discharge was service related, or</li><li>were discharged prior to August 11, 1967.</li><li>Have received an honorable discharge for each period of federal active duty service, and/or be honorably serving.</li><li>Not be a member of the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC).</li><li>Have resided in Illinois within six months before entering federal active duty service or within six months prior to entering the service.</li><li>Have returned or plan to return to Illinois within six months after leaving federal active duty service unless you are residing with a spouse in continued military service and establish or plan to establish Illinois residency within six months of his/her leaving federal active duty service.</li><li>Be enrolled at an Illinois public 2 or 4 year college.</li><li>Reside in Illinois unless you are serving federal active duty service at the time of enrollment in college or residing with a spouse in continued military service who is currently stationed outside of Illinois.</li><li>Not be in default on any student loan, nor owe a refund on any state or federal grant.</li><li>Maintain the minimum grade point average (GPA) required by your college.</li></ul><blockquote>If you are currently serving in the Illinois National Guard you may also be eligible for the Illinois National Guard Grant Program. If you receive benefits from the IVG Program while serving federal active duty service, upon discharge you will be required to verify that your service has been characterized as honorable.</blockquote> Now some of you may be asking, "But, isn't this a statewide program?" Yeah, but I was contacted directly to help spread the word, by two very dedicated gentlemen looking to help our brave fighting men and women. I believe that the University of Illinois deserves the bulk of this post for that alone. It took a cold call to me, a short conversation, and some exchanging of LinkedIn connecting to seal the deal. No other college or university has done that with me, until now. Lion's share goes to the one to execute and follow through. Ya know the saying, "To the victor goes the spoils." I have all the contact information for the Assistant Dean, Mr. Robert van der Hooning. I've provided his name in case you already have contact information for the university. Since web-bots are disgusting and snag e-mail addresses out of blog content, I'll refrain from dropping his e-mail in this post. Please contact me directly and I'll get you alllll the info! Oh, the other reason University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign is gettin' all the press here is because my heart has two special places for this effort: this program helps all US Military personnel and my best friend growing up is an Illini. My best friend, in 7th Grade, was taking advanced courses at Cal Berkeley during the regular school year as well on his summer vacation. And, to top it all off, he was holding down a job working at Lawrence Livermore Lab during the summer months. Yeah, during middle school he was far beyond folks actively enrolled as freshmen at Cal. He went on to get tons of offers after he graduated Cal - he went to U of I in Urbana/Champaign. His field, you might ask? Nuclear Astrophysics. No small feat, wouldn't ya say? :) I remember the day I was in the Reserves and went to visit him at U of I. He took me to his lab where he had a "small" program running on the Cray. It wasn't too complex, he said, just begins with the formation of a small planetary body from particulate matter in space, drawn together. After years that I cannot count on fingers and toes, the body that he had formed, a star, then goes through the "death cycle" to final implosion. No biggie, we just need to come back and check all is well later after dinner and a few beers. Found out later, he kinda "whacked" the Cray with his analysis and needed to schedule a new run. Seems the Cray had a little trouble with, time and space? :) Or, maybe it was fact that the heat coefficient function was too aggressive - I forget. One Cray down, two more to go! (I think they had three back then, I need to check on that) Well, get on over and make yourself an Illini! You sacrificed your time and put your life on the line, the Great State of Illinois wants to pay you back. And, from my seat here in front of my computer, the University of Illinois should be your first stop! <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a68/LinkedInUSAF/UIUC_Column.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 197px;" src="http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a68/LinkedInUSAF/UIUC_Column.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>(sorry Illini - I hunted all over the UIUC for a column! I "borrowed" and "modified" to get this one) </div> Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/114291765080790679/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=114291765080790679' title='6 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114291765080790679'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114291765080790679'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/03/us-military-illinois-get-your-mba-free.html' title='US Military? Illinois? Get Your MBA FREE!!!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>6</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-114144339844676011</id><published>2006-03-03T19:36:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-03-20T19:33:51.253-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Get Your Pens and Paper Out, NOW!</title><content type='html'>Alright, I just got pinged on IM by CJ over at <a href="http://www.soldiersperspective.us">A Soldiers' Perspective</a>. I'm the type to always answer the call from a fellow Milblogger. I am especially keen on answering when that Milblogger is still active duty, and needs my help! This blog is dedicated to the positive. And, in that sense, I know that what CJ is all about right now is putting our best foot forward and making someone else's life better. In this case, it is a family of a fallen brother. This family is going through a very rough patch right now as they are being harassed by some protestors. The folks that don't like this war are around, and they have the freedom which we have fought and died for, to speak out and protest on their own issues, wants, and needs. But, when you raise your hand to someone that has risked their life for you to keep those freedoms, you make the hair on the back of my neck stand STRAIGHT UP! I am thoroughly disgusted by the actions taken by the current batch of protestors, and one would think God fearing, Westboro Baptist Church. What on earth is going to be served by torturing this family in their hour of need? When there is a grieving family, do you in turn, egg their home and call them with disgusting comments like, "I'm glad your son is dead."? My oh my. What evil have these people wrought? In support of CJ, and Sgt. Rickey Jones' family, please take the time and join this <a href="http://www.soldiersperspective.us/?p=871">letter writing campaign</a>. As CJ puts it, so well: <blockquote>"Let them know that we appreciate their son's service and mourn their loss. Let's show them what America is really made of. This isn't about whether or not you support the war. This is about common decency for a family that has suffered the ultimate sacrifice ... having to bury a child." </blockquote>For the information contact, I'll include the <a href="http://www.soldiersperspective.us/?p=871">paragraph from CJ's site</a>, here: <blockquote>"If you own a blog, please post this effort on your respective blogs and ask your readers to post it on their blogs. If you are as disgusted as I am and would like to write a letter to have delivered to this family, please email Lauren (MyWay716@aol.com) for more information. The good people over at <a href="http://www.operationmilitarypride.org">Operation Military Pride</a> are helping facilitate the delivery of these letters." </blockquote>Get to work, folks. This is a good cause, and I know this group is full of caring people that know the commitment and honor that should be afforded to our fallen brother in arms. <hr /> UPDATE: Milblogs Linking Here <a href="http://euphoria.jarkolicious.com/journal/2006/02/28/1879"></a><a href="http://euphoria.jarkolicious.com/journal/2006/02/28/1879">Euphoric Reality</a> <a href="http://exileinportales.blogspot.com/2006/03/some-serious-business.html">Exile in Portales</a> <a href="http://youbetchaimapam.blogspot.com/2006/03/family-in-need-of-some-tlc.html">You Betcha I'm a Proud Army Mom</a> <a href="http://sablogs.com/index.php?blog=46&title=patriots_step_up&amp;amp;amp;more=1&c=1&amp;tb=1&pb=1">Soldiers' Angels - New York</a> <a href="http://www.onebigdog.net/2006/03/04/disturbing-behavior">Big Dog's Weblog</a> <a href="http://caosblog.com/2877">Cao's Blog</a> <a href="http://texasfred.wordpress.com/2006/03/04/how-could-they-from-a-rose-by-any-other-name">And THAT is MY Opinion</a> <a href="http://aladysruminations.blogspot.com/2006/03/lets-write-some-letters-of-support.html">A Lady's Ruminations</a> <a href="http://www.gribbitonline.com/2006/03/take_time_to_write_a_family_in.html">Gribbit's Word</a> <a href="http://conservative-insurgent.blog-city.com/time_to_rally.htm">Conservative Insurgent</a> <a href="http://www.msunderestimated.com/2006/03/take_time_to_write_a_family_in.html">Ms. Underestimated</a> <a href="http://iraqwarnews.net/2006/03/help-show-your-support-for-fallen.html">Iraq War Today</a> <a href="http://landrys-life-blog.blogspot.com/2006/03/honoring-sgt-rickey-jones-letter.html">Landrys Life</a> <a href="http://crazynightinga.blogspot.com/2006/03/call-to-action.html">Yikes!</a> <a href="http://arosebyname.blogspot.com/2006/03/how-could-they.html">A Rose By Any Other Name</a> <a href="http://hammeringsparksfromtheanvil.blogspot.com/2006/03/worthy-reporting-at-soldiers.html">Sparks From the Anvil</a> <a href="http://www.blackfive.net/main/2006/03/fallen_soldiers.html">Blackfive</a> <a href="http://righttruth.typepad.com/right_truth/2006/03/fallen_soldiers.html">Right Truth</a> <a href="http://littleolelady.wordpress.com/2006/03/05/they-deserve-honor-not-threats">Conservative Cogitation</a> <a href="http://whenevilprospers.blogspot.com/2006/03/outrageous-appalling-and-indecent.html">WhenEvilProspers</a> <a href="http://www.noendbutvictory.com/?p=325">No End But Victory</a> <a href="http://intraining.typepad.com/in_training/2006/03/a_soldiers_pers.html">In Training</a> <a href="http://milblogging.com/index.php?entry=entry060306-093958">Milblogging.com</a> <a href="http://tennesseebc.blogspot.com/2006/03/fred-phelps-monster.html">Knowledge is Power</a> <a href="http://mobyrebuttal.blogspot.com/2006/03/fallen-soldiers-house-vandalized.html">Blonde Sagacity</a> <a href="http://hick-politics.blogspot.com/2006/03/from-friend-and-soldier-letter-writing.html">Hick Politics</a> Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/114144339844676011/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=114144339844676011' title='4 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114144339844676011'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114144339844676011'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/03/get-your-pens-and-paper-out-now.html' title='Get Your Pens and Paper Out, NOW!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>4</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-114118560554080303</id><published>2006-02-28T19:44:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-28T20:00:10.100-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Get the Good GWOT Gems!</title><content type='html'>Do you find that you just don't have the time to get to all those Milblogs out there? Does it seem like after you've read one, it's time to take out the garbage, or get the kids to bed, or GET OUT OF YOUR JAMMIES!!! And, once you've taken the time to read a few, and all you get is smack down and venting and rhetoric that'll give you curls like Lucy's? Wanna just get to those blogs giving you the good news from the sandbox? Once in a while, do ya have a hankerin' to read a few great stories without all the 'tude? Then ya wanna click on over to <a href="http://www.campkatrina.typepad.com">Phil of Camp Katrina</a> fame's new site, <a href="http://www.miltracker.com">MilTracker.com</a>! He's taken the time to reach out to those bloggers that have the good stories, he compiles them into a quick list for us all, and gives ya the meat without all those annoying turnips! I go there every day now. Hope you find what you are looking for there, as I do! Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/114118560554080303/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=114118560554080303' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114118560554080303'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114118560554080303'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/get-good-gwot-gems.html' title='Get the Good GWOT Gems!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-114115062080996416</id><published>2006-02-28T10:13:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-28T10:17:00.830-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Tornado Warning in California?</title><content type='html'>Just <a href="http://fix4rso.com/2006/02/28/bush-causes-tornado-in-n-california/">read</a>, and heard, there is a tornado warning in Northern California. Near Travis AFB, in Solano County, they predict a tornado to hit around Suisun City (say it as Sih-soon City). Take care everyone, and be safe! Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/114115062080996416/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=114115062080996416' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114115062080996416'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114115062080996416'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/tornado-warning-in-california.html' title='Tornado Warning in California?'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-114098635556092615</id><published>2006-02-26T12:10:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-26T12:39:27.966-08:00</updated><title type='text'>What?! The Night Stalker Dies Too!!!</title><content type='html'>Darren McGavin died yesterday. What is in the water down there in LA anyway?! Darren McGavin has done an amazing amount of work in TV and Movies. The list is as huge as Don Knotts, yet he fit into a very different genre than Mr. Knotts. Take a gander: <blockquote>The Man with the Golden Arm The Court-Martial of Billy Mitchell Billy Madison Alfred Hitchcock Presents Dr. Kildare Death Valley Days Mission Mars Gunsmoke The Rookies Six Million Dollar Man Airport '77 Hangar 18 Donovan's Kid Tales from the Darkside Dead Heat The X Files </blockquote>Sheesh, the list is too long. I am a huge TV/Movie Trivia IDIOT, so to see two big actors go in one weekend makes ya think ... Is Hollywood in for a shake-up? Who is taking the place of the once great actors of our days ... ??? Time will tell. Yet, for those in the blogosphere that are Milbloggers ... we have a list and put up with the rest. Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/114098635556092615/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=114098635556092615' title='3 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114098635556092615'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114098635556092615'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/what-night-stalker-dies-too.html' title='What?! The Night Stalker Dies Too!!!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>3</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-114098339758493782</id><published>2006-02-26T11:43:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-26T11:57:42.966-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Mr. Limpet Dies at 81</title><content type='html'>Just looking around for something good to write and came upon something sad (for me). Don Knotts died Friday at the age of 81. Even though his primary memory for me is from comedies and great movies from Disney (they just can't make good ones anymore), I think I'll remember him best from those long days as a little boy, being sick as dog, watching Mr. Knotts on TV with Andy Griffith ... you know the show ... say it out loud! :) A moment of sadness for all those that remember these unforgettables: <blockquote>Mr. Limpet The Apple Dumpling Gang The Shakiest Gun in the West Three's Company Chicken Little Pleasantville Gus The Reluctant Astronaut It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World The Muppet Show </blockquote>Aw, heck, just remember him as a great man with a great love for children everwhere who refused to compromise principles for Hollywood. Take care Don, and I can't wait to shake your hand at that great mixer in the sky with the Big Guy! Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/114098339758493782/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=114098339758493782' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114098339758493782'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114098339758493782'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/mr-limpet-dies-at-81.html' title='Mr. Limpet Dies at 81'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-114092664150023811</id><published>2006-02-25T20:00:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-25T20:48:42.743-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Just Remember Who Funds the Military</title><content type='html'>Alright, it's been a bit slow here 'cause we took a short trip. Too short to be exact! But, who ever thought a vacation was ever long enough?! Back to some business - the Air Force Association's <a href="http://www.afa.org/media/press/07Budget.asp">latest e-mail update</a> regarding TRICARE and Department of Veterans Affairs benefits costs. I am going to focus on the issue of TRICARE and Department of Veterans Affairs personnel here. You do need to know that no matter what, the same construct applies to anything regarding the funding of anything that relates to the US Military: Congress authorizes the budget, they pay the bills, the President and his staff only draw up a proposal (they are the executive branch). Congress is responsible for reviewing and approving everything that is in every nook and cranny of the budget. The Executive Team proposes a budget and the run-rate for the entire system (our country) going forward. The Bean Counters work the numbers and adjust fiscal year targets responding with a Yea or Nay on the proposal. Everyone gets back to the table and "haggles" until the whole thing works for everyone. That's business. And, really folks, this country is run like a business! We may be a representative republic, but we still are a capitalist system and therefore must have this process under control and run by a CEO (CINC is the CEO, and the CFO/CIO/COO/Legal are in other seats!). If everything that has been proposed passes this budget phase, and Congress has not stopped increases in fees for TRICARE and Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, stop blaming the President. You really need to go after your slacker representatives! Net-Net the proposed budget shows an increase in fees/co-payments (what you and I, if you are in the private sector, pay now) for visits and drugs. In some cases there is an "enrollment" fee for folks in Priority Groups 7 and 8 (folks that have illness/injuries not related to military service). Let's be honest, rates are going to increase for everyone, and in some cases these changes are upwards of a 40% increase overall! Now, I never served 20 years. I am not under TRICARE. I am also not a Department of Veterans Affairs employee. I'm just a regular guy. I am already getting whacked by my company for benefits because I work at a small company and insurance companies love to rake the small companies - which translates to costs (I pay around $800/mth out of pocket) passed directly to the employee. No free ride here ... If I had served 20, benefits should be very affordable for my family and I. No question. In fact, costs now, if they go unchanged and there are no increases, only costs 4% of the GDP. I think useless funding of some slacker programs eat up more of the GDP - so, why is there a need to change the Military's 4%? Leave the 4% GDP cost for Military Costs and Benefits steadfast and clamp down on some of these other slacker programs that just get slacker representatives reelected! If these costs are going up, and the government (I use a generic term on purpose) sees fit to pass these fees on down the chain, what can a person do? How can a few of us get enough momentum going to change the wave of disrespect for those that sacrificed their lives for those of us riding on their backs? (yes, I served, but not as long, remember?) I believe that the 4% price for the US Military is small and well worth it when compared to the yearly paycheck these useless representatives pull down a year, sucking us all dry! Sorry, I still think Washington gets paid too much for what they are doing for us these days ... off the soapbox now. Anyway, there needs to be something done. I am mailing my useless representatives. What about you? Take the <a href="http://www.afa.org/media/press/07Budget.asp">URL</a> for the Air Force Association online article and pound away at your empty suit in Washington. http://www.afa.org/media/press/07Budget.asp It can't hurt! Oh, the above is pretty simplistic - give me a break, I just got back from vacation! :) Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/114092664150023811/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=114092664150023811' title='1 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114092664150023811'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/114092664150023811'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/just-remember-who-funds-military.html' title='Just Remember Who Funds the Military'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>1</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113999397478740303</id><published>2006-02-15T00:49:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-15T00:59:34.810-08:00</updated><title type='text'>You're Looney Toons to think it's OK!</title><content type='html'>Certain things should just be common sense. Riots over cartoons are a stretch and over the top. Too much hate is being whipped up over there. That matter is a ticking you know what. I read some good arguments over at <a href="http://calivalleygirl.blogspot.com/2006/02/exercising-my-freedom-of-speech.html">CaliValleyGirl as her feathers got ruffled by a friend</a>. Yet, during the "ruffling", a point she put forth touched a nerve ... many of you may have that nerve too ... I am posting my comments on her blog here - you can go there to read them too. Therefore, don't take the "you" here as you, but the "you" over there in her comments section ... whatever! :) Here are my words: I NEVER let my American Flag touch the ground. Would any of you? Do you understand why? Do you know the history, and the many men that risked their lives TO RETRIEVE OUR OLD GLORY before their position was overrun, while under heavy fire, to retrieve "The Old Girl"? Do you know how many men WATCHED the guy they've been sharing a foxhole with run to collect the flag, get cut down, and HE THEN JUMPS UP and goes to get the flag? If so, then you KNOW why burning the American Flag is not free speech. You tread on those that have passed before you. And that is where this country has brought itself. Never leave anyone behind. Never leave the colors, ever. Never disgrace those before you. Powerful words. Words spoken by those that have brought you safe shopping malls and open freeways. Luxuries, compared to many other countries run by tinhorn dictators. But, I don't riot. Yet, if we could wrest the flag burning issue from judicial activism and place it in the hands of the people, who do YOU think would win? I know what MY VOTE would be. And before you say, "Aww, but, they should have a right to ...", look deep in your heart and concentrate - I say, "People should protect our national symbol, the American Flag, for those that have kept it flying for us to enjoy our luxuries." God Bless America. God Keep the American Flag Flying Free and Unsoiled. And, may God Bless all of you. Sorry for the "soap box", but this is a big one for me ... (i lived in Germany while in the US Air Force. i had to inspect my car every morning to look for explosives. i had to watch myself when in non-military towns. during those two years we closed the gates numerous times [Rhein Main AFB is no small base!] for safety. that was in the early 80's. have any of you had to check under your car, in the engine compartment, and in the trunk before you could go to work? i thought not. think about what the American Flag brings you at home, and what it draws to you outside our borders. frightening.) Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113999397478740303/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113999397478740303' title='7 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113999397478740303'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113999397478740303'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/youre-looney-toons-to-think-its-ok.html' title='You're Looney Toons to think it's OK!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>7</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113990538894509355</id><published>2006-02-13T23:53:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-14T00:34:47.333-08:00</updated><title type='text'>LinkedInUSAF Group Member #0025 In Need!</title><content type='html'>I started this blog, as you remember from a <a href="http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2005/08/how-linkedinusaf-started.html">previous post</a>, to help other members of the US Air Force that use <a href="http://www.linkedin.com">LinkedIn</a> and are members of our private group, <a href="http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/LinkedInUSAF">LinkedInUSAF</a>. I have been working on images and templates for the occasion when one of our group members needs help. That day is today! First, how does the FLASH MESSAGE look?! I took the format from the old teletype messages everyone would receive in the field. I borrowed the look and feel from an old World War II contact from CINCPAC to ALL PAC Forces. The field at the top really is a priority 1 message! The day of the month and time (in Zulu) are preceded by a number or code to signal importance. The month abbreviation and the year drops in at the end. Took a while to find out how that part of the transmission was put together. I am sure some of you SIGINT folks can give me more information about the format and code. Please do! Second, to help you understand how to get in touch with the person in need, a little extra info is in order. There will not be a name associated with this post. I am using the group members ID to protect their identity. To reach this person, just go ahead and contact me using the e-mail address in the FLASH MESSAGE graphic - this also minimizes my spam by not putting a live mailto link here! Now, on to the most important part! <div style="text-align: center;">LinkedIn USAF Member ID#0025 </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/FLASHMSG_ID0025_Large.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/FLASHMSG_ID0025_Large.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a68/LinkedInUSAF/FLASHMSG_ID0025_Large.jpg">TO ALL READERS: CLICK FOR FULL FLASH MESSAGE</a> </div><blockquote> Need: Career change in process and currently seeking a new position. Titles: Program Manager, Service Manager, Lt Colonel, Management Consultant Summary: Over 20 years experience bridging all levels of communication in both corporate and government organizations. Individual strengths are in systems and process design as well as technology support resulting in increased organizational effectiveness. Specialties: Process Design, Technology Project Management, Enterprise Systems, Cross-organizational communications and coordination. Currently: Project management, process design, and business process development from technology support to enterprise software systems development. Corporate structures range from mid-sized to large organizations to include: agribusiness, aerospace, telecommunications, utilities, education and service. Responsibilities included being a Program Manager for an information technology consulting company, a Service Manager for a Fortune 100 Software Company, and providing Command and Control capabilities for numerous systems valued at over $30 billion requiring 12,000 personnel in 44 locations worldwide. Past to Present: United States Air Force (22+ Years), DPI Services Inc., IBM, Management Consulting Firm (owner)</blockquote> Please, contact me at the e-mail in the FLASH MESSAGE graphic as soon as possible with any leads! Dropping me a note with the name, e-mail address, and phone number of a headhunter that serves the Northern to Central California region would be just great! You might also want to just give that headhunter my e-mail address and I'll take it from there - whatever is easier for you! If you have a blog, would you be so kind as to provide a link-back or Trackback to this post? I'd like to get as much reach into the job market as possible. As you all know, the more people you can touch the more successful your job search will be - and I just love success! Thanks for all your help in advance! Our LinkedInUSAF Group members thank you very much, too! Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113990538894509355/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113990538894509355' title='2 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113990538894509355'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113990538894509355'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/linkedinusaf-group-member-0025-in-need.html' title='LinkedInUSAF Group Member #0025 In Need!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>2</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113978539610480853</id><published>2006-02-12T14:57:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-12T15:03:16.123-08:00</updated><title type='text'>The Spirit of Hawaii - Ke Aloha</title><content type='html'>This is a great photo of the Spirit of Hawaii! <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/C17_SpiritOfHawaii_060208-F-2034C-005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/C17_SpiritOfHawaii_060208-F-2034C-005.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060208-F-2034C-005.JPG">[U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Shane A. Cuomo]</a> </div> Take care, Bruddah! Mahalo! Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113978539610480853/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113978539610480853' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113978539610480853'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113978539610480853'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/spirit-of-hawaii-ke-aloha.html' title='The Spirit of Hawaii - Ke Aloha'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113939227278223192</id><published>2006-02-08T01:49:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-08T01:51:12.813-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Thermonuclear war in a Starbucks Society, discuss ...</title><content type='html'>You know, it never ever gets old how folks can easily blur what is the reality in front of them. There seems to be a strong affectation brought about via the "coffee shop safety dance". No one wants to offend the other because their kids are in the same class, or play a sport together, or belong to a group or club. Some of us are flat out afraid of being sued or stalked for putting our own ideas out in front! Everyone is so quick to smack you down for expressing your ideas if counter to theirs, because they are safe in their "coffee shop", having their "coffee talk". Why is it OK for everyone to smack down the US Military getting budget dollars? I mean, if we were taking those budget dollars and giving it to the politicians, well, then you have cause for alarm! But, we are in the beginnings of some very tense days. This isn't Fidel Castro trying to sport a few missiles in Cuba to get his way (ie having the United States pay him for his terrorist action). This is about people that have no compunction lobbing missiles at Israel and the United States - ultimately to destroy us both. We need to do everything in our power to stop this from happening. Hmmm ... let's see, cattle flatulence studies or new ways to achieve success in the Global War on Terror ... The key is what I read in the QDR (yes, I really did read it, and no, I won't print everything here; you all hate my huge posts I am sure). The US Air Force is being given complete control over UAV/UCAVs - keep the airspace under control. Also, combine forces better by having AFSOS beginning to form tighter bonds with a larger Special Operations force comprised of the Navy, Army, Air Force, and Marines. The art of war is changing every day as the climate throughout the world heats up to epic proportions - in fact, biblical proportions! We need to be able to strike deep into all sorts of enemy territory with precision, and then amass a force on the ground that is mobile, lethal, and efficient. This really is a war where we break things and kill people. And the enemy can amass militants at the snap of a finger, or the stroke of a pen. If a few cartoons get these people to riot, what makes you think they are going to give you a "big hug"? I think that there have been cartoons out there over the years that never should have seen the light of day. You know that when the cartoonist drew it, the editors reviewed it, and the paper prints it, they all are colluding. They are all at fault, and they have to know it is going to provoke emotion. If they do not know this, we need to take the pen out of their hands and immediately prescribe meds. Sheesh, even a kid knows this is going to set people off - it is targeting a religion! Is Homer Simpson in charge of today's media? I hear a huge "Doh!" out there after this last mess! Does the media out there actually forget the Cold War? There were missiles aimed at all major metropolitan areas all over the world (predominantly here and in the USSR). We all knew where ground zero was, we knew that living in Omaha, Nebraska, wasn't just cold, you had a huge target on your head! Now, there is no big bad evil empire, it is a fluid, flammable, easily excited enemy out there. Access to elements key to mass destruction can be bought for the right price. I am not the only one asking why is it that the Starbucks Society has lost touch with all the threats to our way of life. Can I have a tall-multiple-delivery-intercontinental-ballistic-missile? OH! Leave room - ya just never know. People, wake up! There is a drive-up window for this stuff! If we don't make the military stronger, bring new ways to combat covert attempts to gain elements, and continue pressure on the world community, you may just get what you ordered: a steaming cup of brackish goop in your lap from a sneering immature flunky paid minimum wage - oh and 72 virgins ... blah, blah, blah ... Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113939227278223192/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113939227278223192' title='7 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113939227278223192'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113939227278223192'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/thermonuclear-war-in-starbucks-society.html' title='Thermonuclear war in a Starbucks Society, discuss ...'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>7</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113904691987805619</id><published>2006-02-04T01:53:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-04T02:01:10.250-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Meme, Oh Meme, What Meme Be This?!</title><content type='html'>This week has been a complete mess. There were numerous posts I wanted to get up on the blog. And then, I really wanted to get to this one, 'cause it's fun, and I think I am just off-center enough that a few of you are gonna say, "Huh? Is this guy stable? The Military GAVE HIM a gun and made him an augmentee!?" Now, it is just plain, flippin', impossible to pick only four of something! Movies and blogs are the hardest. I have so many movies flying around in my mind that even the list below is not enough. And then, there were some things I thought we all could think about, like "Places that just rate an, 'Eh', response", Milblogs to visit daily, and adult beverages! You all can leave those off, if you want, but I figured I'd dive right in and be honest! :) So, here we go, and thanks for tagging me, <a href="http://www.sablogs.com/index.php?blog=46">Laurie</a>! I know you have been waiting for these answers. And, as you already know in a few other choice and whacked e-mails, I am, well, certifiable! 4 Jobs You Have Had In Your Life <ol><li>Landscaping for an elderly widow (her husband was a famous botanist! at least I didn't kill any rare plants!)</li><li>Inertial and Doppler Navigation Systems Specialist (USAF - supported Doppler, AWADS, Gyro-based INS, Stellar or Celestial Nav, and worked on the first Navstar GPS Systems, too!)</li><li>Travel Agent and Systems Support (worked for United Airlines and Covia on Apollo Systems, and then numerous travel agencies as their IT/IS guy)</li><li>Software Quality Engineering (companies like Frame Technology, AirTouch Cellular, OmniSky, and ran worldwide Software Quality for palmOne [the Palm PDA guys])</li></ol> 4 Movies You Would Watch Over and Over <ol><li>The Waterboy (c'mon, hard hitting football scenes and STUPID comedy! what else is there in life!?)</li><li>Monty Python's movies (The Meaning of Life, Life of Brian, The Holy Grail, duh!!!)</li><li>Mel Brooks' movies (Spaceballs, Blazing Saddles, High Anxiety, History of the World)</li><li>Usual Suspects (Kaiser Sooohhhh-saaaay!)</li></ol> 4 TV Shows You Love to Watch <ol><li>CSI(s) (plural, like 'em all)</li><li>House (if you like Black Adder and Frye and Laurie, you'd like House)</li><li>Black Adder (doh! dead give-away! - well, Mr Bean too!)</li><li>24</li></ol> 4 Places You Have Lived <ol><li>California (I'm a Native Californian, so, BACK-OFF!!!)</li><li>Mississippi (Biloxi, Keesler AFB, 9 MONTHS PEOPLE!)</li><li>Frankfurt, Germany (Rhein Main AFB - sad, she is no longer with us)</li><li>Omaha, Nebraska (once you get on it, you can't get Offutt!)</li></ol> 4 Places You Have Been On Vacation <ol><li>West and East Berlin (during the Cold War, BABY!!! it was a TRIP!)</li><li>Fulda Gap (back then, it was a SIGHT to see - that was power on the battlefield)</li><li>Tahiti (for my birthday one year - Dad worked for United Airlines and got us a deal!)</li><li>Alaska (my older sister lived there for many years working in the Capitol [quiz: the capitol is?])</li></ol> 4 GREAT Places Where You Just Said, "Eh .." <ol><li>Atlanta, Georgia (sorry, lived there, it was beautiful, but, eh)</li><li>Las Vegas, Nevada (it got old real fast - sorry, not me cup o' tea)</li><li>London, England (I loved Norwich/Kings Lynn and my Dad's birthplace Manchester better)</li><li>Oahu, Hawaii (I've been to Hawaii ~20 times, everywhere else but Oahu is GREAT!)</li></ol> 4 Websites You Visit Daily <ol><li><a href="http://amyproctor.squarespace.com">Amy Proctor</a> (she just knock-down nails some tough subjects - with panache!)</li><li><a href="http://www.sarahorn.com">Faith at the Front</a> (Sara is a great writer and motivator via the word)</li><li><a href="http://www.irishpennants.com">Irish Pennants</a> (just dropped onto this site and like the writing)</li><li><a href="http://www.newsmax.com">NewsMax</a> (well, I subscribe to the feeds and e-mail drops, so maybe it visits me!)</li></ol> 4 Milblogs You Visit Daily <ol><li>Soldiers' Angels <a href="http://www.sablogs.com/index.php?blog=46">NY</a> and <a href="http://www.sablogs.com/index.php?blog=4">DE</a> (DE is for Germany, folks)</li><li><a href="http://exileinportales.blogspot.com">TOAOBP</a> (The One And Only Buck Pennington!)</li><li><a href="http://magyartruth.blogspot.com">The Truth</a> (thought provoking Chief has a handle on some brain twisters!)</li><li>TOSS UP: <a href="http://capnbob.us/blog">Cap'n Bob</a> and <a href="http://officersclub.blogspot.com">Officers' Club</a> (I like 'em both, they both rate! so, more than 4!)</li></ol> 4 Favorite Foods <ol><li>Chocolate</li><li>Chocolate</li><li>Steak</li><li>Chocolate</li></ol> OK, just kidding, here we go again: 4 Favorite Foods <ol><li>Chocolate (just relax, there's more!)</li><li>Steak (Tri-Tip or Market on the BBQ)</li><li>Baked Cut Red Potatoes with rosemary/basil/salt/olive oil</li><li>Fried Chicken (coated in a garlic & salt &amp; flour, basted with oil and sherry)</li></ol> 4 Favorite "Adult Beverages" <ol><li>My own Appletini Recipe (involves Berentzen's Apfel Korn)</li><li>My own Sangria Recipe (let's just say it's killer and includes extra alcohol!)</li><li>Strong wines (any dark cabernet, pinot, port, or eisewine/troken beeren auslese)</li><li>Good Scotch, Jack Daniels, or 7 to 12 year dark rum (Ronrico)</li></ol> 4 Places You Would Rather Be Right Now <ol><li>Sitting on the patio in the early evening, while the girls are swimming, and all you hear is laughter</li><li>Eating my favorite foods with a glass of red, then enjoying dark rum and some pipe tobacco on the patio (see above)</li><li>Sitting on the hammerhead at Beale AFB with two sets of hearing protection at sunset waiting for the SR-71 pilot to rocket down the runway</li><li>Sitting at home in front of our TV with popcorn on a rainy day and all 3 of my girls watching The Princess Bride, Scooby Doo, Monsters Inc, Ice Age, Emperor's New Groove - just laughing under a blanket with a flashlight (huh? what happened to the movie? lost interest!)</li></ol> 4 People to Tag <a href="http://www.intraining.typepad.com">In Training</a> ('cause she'd have some good answers!) <a href="http://capnbob.us/blog">Cap'n Bob</a> (I think between the Cap'n and Damsel, the answers will be great!) <a href="http://dyzgoneby.blogspot.com">Days Gone By</a> (she needs to gimme some funny ones!) <a href="http://www.planningblog.com">planningblog</a> (Carol, start at the pub, and then lead us onward!) Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113904691987805619/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113904691987805619' title='9 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113904691987805619'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113904691987805619'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/meme-oh-meme-what-meme-be-this.html' title='Meme, Oh Meme, What Meme Be This?!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>9</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113895975202065906</id><published>2006-02-03T00:29:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-02-03T01:47:23.253-08:00</updated><title type='text'>When You Think You Know Someone</title><content type='html'><blockquote>"I speak for all my Soldiers when I say that we sleep well at night because we know you are all out here keeping us safe."</blockquote> Is that a quote from a Captain or Major of the Iraqi Forces thanking the service of our US Army or Marines? Could this be a quote you read when you were just skimming the news bytes from the MSM and a reporter forgot that this is something positive? Do you think that this one sentence is a training command leader speaking about the active Soldiers protecting them as they learn their new duties? Well, actually, this is one of those real life statements that is spoken in true thanks and appreciation from someone who "knows soldiering". The speaker is US Army Colonel Victor McCagnan, commander of the 16th Corps Support Group and Logistical Support Area Adder, Tallil Iraq. The 30 folks he is thanking are the US Air Force Security Police Airmen from Tyndall AFB, Niagara Falls ARS, and Seymore-Johnson AFB. Surprised? Colonel McCagnan isn't. Everyone serving over seas and here at home are not surprised. The families of our US Military are not surprised one bit! The President of the United States is not surprised. And, I'm pretty sure, if you read my blog once in a while, you aren't surprised and I didn't surprise you one bit. Yet, it's not just the quote above but the actions taken by Colonel McCagnan that should not go unreported. Colonel McCagnan was speaking at a <a href="http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=5285">ceremony where he was awarding 16 of the 30 US Air Force Security Police</a> with United States Army Commendation Medals! US Army Commendation medals are rarely awarded to other service members outside the Army. Generals of both branches need to approve the medals. US Air Force Senior Master Sergeant Marc G. Melcher wrote: <blockquote>"Receiving the decorations was a very exciting and a very proud moment for me personally. I have over 25 years of military service and this was the first time I was involved with another service performing a mission. To be recognized by the Army for my service and contributions to the garrison was a great moment." </blockquote> <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/USArmyCommMedals1_DVIDS_14970.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/USArmyCommMedals1_DVIDS_14970.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=14970">[Photo by Staff Sergeant Engels Tejeda]</a> </div> SrMsgt Melcher said something that really struck me. He said that he has served for 25 years and this is the first time he has been involved in a joint services mission. Now, I know he doesn't mean we've never worked together - we always do. But, today's forces are really working closely together to achieve mission success. The last time that the US Army and the US Air Force worked this closely was before the Army Air Corps became the United States Air Force. People, we were the same branch of the service some 58 years ago! The US Army's little brother has grown up, moved out of town far away, and picked a life that is very, very different from his older brother. For many years they just never saw things the same way. When problems came about and "Mom and Dad" needed help, yeah, of course they'd pull together and get the job done! Let's be honest, we are family after all! Yet, when things got back to normal, both brothers would sorta drift off to their respective regular lives. The younger one is a major nerd and into all kinds of techie-things - the older one would just shake his head, "What sorta gadget is he messin' with now?" The older one is completely at home in the outdoors where the air is clean and there are no traffic jams or annoying cell phones - the younger one would just shake his head, "He never reads my e-mail." <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/USArmyCommMedals2_DVIDS_14973.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/USArmyCommMedals2_DVIDS_14973.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=14973">[Photo by Staff Sergeant Engels Tejeda]</a> </div> Colonel McCagnan recognizes that we are all working together for one cause. And, it's good to hear him say: <blockquote>"I hope the next guys are at least half as good as these guys because they were great." </blockquote> Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113895975202065906/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113895975202065906' title='6 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113895975202065906'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113895975202065906'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/02/when-you-think-you-know-someone.html' title='When You Think You Know Someone'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>6</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113860965076052388</id><published>2006-01-29T23:18:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-01-30T00:39:22.343-08:00</updated><title type='text'>God Shines Down on Those Protecting us All</title><content type='html'>In a <a href="http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=5217">story written by US Army Sergeant Rachel Brune, 101st Sustainment BDE</a>, I found this photo she took as the 454th Transportation Company headed out to Forward Operation Base Warrior. There is only one thing that came to mind when I saw this photo: <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/GodShinesDown_DVIDS14806.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/GodShinesDown_DVIDS14806.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.dvidshub.net/img_show.php?id=14806">[US Army Photo, Sgt Rachel Brune 101st Sustainment BDE]</a> </div> God is watching over those that are protecting us. And as these brave men and women do their duty with honor, it is only fitting that Jacob shines down on them. <blockquote>Genesis, Chapter 28, Jacob's Dream at Bethel 11 He came to a certain place and stayed there for the night, because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones of the place, he put it under his head and lay down in that place. 12 And he dreamed that there was a ladder set up on the earth, the top of it reaching to heaven; and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. </blockquote>God Speed, and God Bless. Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113860965076052388/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113860965076052388' title='3 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113860965076052388'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113860965076052388'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/god-shines-down-on-those-protecting-us.html' title='God Shines Down on Those Protecting us All'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>3</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113827755189827257</id><published>2006-01-26T03:57:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-01-26T04:33:40.193-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Combatants, Fuel, and Grease Pencil Idiots</title><content type='html'>Look, I love the US Air Force, and I am sure you can tell that by now! If you are among those that believes we are just glorified bus drivers and fair weather combatants, you probably want to stop reading this particular post, right now. I do not intend to be mean, cut you off, or offend you in any way at all. I am going to discuss something that even at the highest levels is deemed "bunk", a "pipe dream", "nitwit shenanigans", <a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014299">"damned nonsensical"</a>, and <a href="http://www.afa.org/magazine/jan2006/0106d_storm.asp">"otherwise transitory advantages"</a>. I'd like to spend some time talking about the US Air Force's role in combat. In the story <a href="http://www.afa.org/magazine/jan2006/0106d_storm.asp">"The Strategy of Desert Storm", Air Force Maga</a><a href="http://www.afa.org/magazine/jan2006/0106d_storm.asp">zine, January 2006, Vol. 89, No. 1</a>, John T. Correll wrote: <blockquote>"In recent years, it has been fashionable to emphasize the Air Force's commitment to supporting the nation's ground forces." "In time of crisis, however, it has usually turned out that "Global Reach-Global Power" had it right. Airpower can be the supporting force in war. It can also be the supported force, or it can act independently. Field Manual 100-20 had it right, too. Airpower is not an auxiliary of land power." "The understanding of that is the strategic legacy of Desert Storm." </blockquote>Everyone remembers that the Gulf War was deemed "The Hundred Hour War" or the "5 Day War". And that is a very true statement, if you subtract the numerous hours and sorties flown prior to the actual land battle. The preceding "war" lasted 38 days - not 38 hours or 38 minutes, but 38 days. There were lives on the line the whole time. In the first few hours of the war, there were airmen and sailors behind the lines -- deep behind enemy lines -- taking out infrastructure, materiel, combatants, and vehicles. US combat aircraft in Desert Storm by branch were as follows: 58% USAF, 27% USN, 15% USMC. This is where the technology, <a href="http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/sleeping-giant-youve-got-zeus-dancin.html">from my first post</a>, shoulders the weight of the "non-war". Have any of you taken the time to watch "Discovery Wings" channel (now the Military Channel)? There have been a few shows that show Desert Storm and a few are of pretty decent length and depth. Each piece, if covering the entire war, shows the intense and deep strike taken to the heart of the enemy. The "new girl" in the air was the "Stealth Fighter" or F-117. She was flanked by F-15s and F-16s to take the "ball" all the way to the "cheap seats" and drop it right in Saddam's lap! Even he was to miscalculate what the United States Air Force is all about. In his own words from <a href="http://www.afa.org/magazine/jan2006/0106d_storm.asp">Mr. Correll's work</a>: <blockquote>"The US relies on the Air Force. The Air Force has never been the decisive factor in the history of war." </blockquote>It is a fact that twice, Saddam has had his hat handed to him. And twice, the war began with deep penetration into the heart of the beast to destroy infrastructure, materiel, combatants, and vehicles. Yesterday, technology and the F-117 was a prime factor. Today, technology and the "Stealth Bomber" or B-2 and the Predator and Globalhawk paved the way. Yesterday, total loss of our brave all volunteer US Military suffered 148 dead and 467 wounded (coalition allies had 99 dead and 434 wounded). Today, 3 plus years into the Global War on Terror (one theater yet two battle areas) we've lost some 2,100+ brave men and women. Now, stop and do some quick math - 36 times as long and not 36 times as many casualties! (36 x 148 = 5,328) Again, technology is causing significant reduction in combatants per square kilometer. Newer technology is also playing a big part in the amount of fuel required to prosecute an air-focused battle. There is a considerable amount of hemmin' and hawwin' going on in regards to fuel consumption in the US Military. Taking my <a href="http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/nope-duh-nope-uh-huh-i-guess-so.html">second post in this series</a> into consideration, with the improvements in technology and the reduction in combatants per square kilometer, fuel is becoming less of a factor in what the Air Force (and the other branches) to prosecute a war today. It's no secret that if we had to prosecute a 1-to-1 air battle with the Iranians (no small air force, I assure you) or with Communist China (another sizable force, people) you'd really need a strong showing in the skies. No ground battle is ever going to be successful again without control of the air. The F-22 is the platform we need, coupled with the F-15 and F-16, to get control of precious air space. Once the air is secure, bringing technology to the fore and prosecuting a ground battle with newer air combat vehicles like UCAVs: <div style="text-align: center;">(such as the MQ-1 Predator) </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/MQ1_Predator_AFPhoto050506-F-0000S-002.0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/MQ1_Predator_AFPhoto050506-F-0000S-002.0.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/050506-F-0000S-002.jpg">[U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Colleen Wronek]</a> </div> <div style="text-align: center;">(and RQ-4A Globalhawk) </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/GlobalHawk_AFPhoto030320-F-0000B-001.0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/GlobalHawk_AFPhoto030320-F-0000B-001.0.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/030320-F-0000B-001.jpg">[Courtesy photo via AF.mil Photos]</a> </div> we are reducing the strain on personnel and materiel (man hours and fuel spent per sortie per kill). Newer weapons that can deliver the munitions directly to the target providing 100% elimination of that target. Newer tactics like combined forces on the ground increase the effectiveness of overall combat operations - and camaraderie. We don't need no stinkin' grease pencils! Gimme the new Raptor to take back the air! <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/F22_Clouds_060104-F-2295B-033.0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/F22_Clouds_060104-F-2295B-033.0.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060104-F-2295B-033.jpg">[U. S. Air Force Photo by TSgt Ben Bloker]</a> </div> When folks at the higher level speak about turning all the United States Air Force fighter-type aircraft over to the Navy and Marines (yes, it was proposed in the QDR!), I get a little, upset. In an article from the same Air Force Magazine (January 2006) titled <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=15280761" asp="">"Washington Watch" by Executive Editor John A. Tirpak</a>, he writes the following: <blockquote>"Throughout the QDR, the Marine Corps has had its eye on the funds intended for the F/A-22 program." "They want that money right now -- preferably yesterday -- to expand the Corps in the near term." "Once in possession of the fighter account, the Marine Corps could kill the F/A-22, shift all fighters to close air support, and use the savings for other purposes." </blockquote>Huh? Go back up a few paragraphs here. Are we to then believe that the best way to be efficient on the battlefield, and with growing tensions in other countries, by trashing our "Global Reach-Global Power" and hamstring the US Air Force?! Who the hell is really thinking these things up? Myopia is a terrible thing, so is target fixation, and even believing that you have the only true battle plan. The following astute leaders put together <a href="http://www.afa.org/magazine/jan2006/0106d_storm.asp">one massively successful 38 day "non-war" code named "Checkmate" and "Instant Thunder":</a> <blockquote>Lt. General Charles A. Horner General Michael J. Dugan General John Michael Loh Colonel John A. Warden III Lt. Colonel David A. Deptula* Brig. General Buster C. Glosson Major Ernie Norsworthy Colonel Tony Tolin </blockquote>*Although Glosson led the effort, the architect of the air campaign was Deptula, who created both the attack strategy and the specific plan. Are we going to go back to "sticks and rocks" or can we all admit that twice now, the US Air Force has proven it can take it to the enemy and provide an adequate theater of operations that propels the ground forces through the enemy "like buttah"!? These types of situations (infighting for funds and prestige) are never going to go away. The only way that the Air Force can survive external, and internal, attack is to become more efficient and provide a broader role in overall strategy and operations. Plus, the Air Force Brass has got to start standing up for themselves and show that we are a fighting force! And, we are a force to be reckoned with, no matter your allegiance. Save money? Or, is this still about fighters fight and pilots shuttle? Take a moment to review the total force that the Air Force brings to the battle: C-5, C-17, B-1, B-2, E-3, E-8, EC/RC-135, E-4B, U-2, A-10, F-15, F-16, F-111, F-117, AC/EC/MC/WC/HC/C-130, KC-135, KC-10, E-10, Predator, Globalhawk, and now the F-22. We move, we jam, we attack, we survey, we target, and we defend - what is coming next? Ever heard of the airborne laser? <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/AC_unstow_flt_050517-F-7719S-001_600x400.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/AC_unstow_flt_050517-F-7719S-001_600x400.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/military/abl/pics-clips/images/midres/AC_unstow_flt_050517-F-7719S-001_600x400.jpg">[USAF Photo by Jim Shryne - BoeingMedia.com]</a> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/AC_unstow_flt_050517-F-7719S-004_600x400.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/AC_unstow_flt_050517-F-7719S-004_600x400.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/military/abl/pics-clips/images/midres/AC_unstow_flt_050517-F-7719S-004_600x400.jpg">[USAF Photo by Jim Shryne - BoeingMedia.com</a><a href="http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/military/abl/pics-clips/images/midres/AC_unstow_flt_050517-F-7719S-004_600x400.jpg">]</a> </div> <div style="text-align: center;">The ABL Laser </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/304511_031.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/304511_031.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/military/abl/pics-clips/images/midres/304511_031.jpg">[BoeingMedia.com]</a> </div> The often forgotten piece of the Air Force is Missile Defense and Space Command! A formidable force, indeed, and something that many take off the table - yet should not be sold short! When it is time to take the field against Iran, North Korea, and China, who ya gonna call? Who can take the fight to the air, and hold it? Who has been doing quite well, thank you, keeping us all safe from an attack from the skies for the last 58 years? C'mon, Ronald Reagan didn't build all this back up just to have it fretted away by short sighted people over influenced by the dopes on Capitol Hill? Did Capitol Hill ever win a war? Have they proven to be adults today? Bah! They're just trying to get re-elected. What's the Joint Chiefs excuse? Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a> H/T to <a href="http://www.sablogs.com/index.php?blog=46">Laurie of Soldiers' Angels NY</a> for her kindness in helping our family adopt an airman in Iraq, and pointing me to the ABL photos above - oh yeah! Steevie likeee! (Tommy Boy Voice There, Laurie!) <div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113827755189827257/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113827755189827257' title='10 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113827755189827257'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113827755189827257'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/combatants-fuel-and-grease-pencil.html' title='Combatants, Fuel, and Grease Pencil Idiots'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>10</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113796962192467317</id><published>2006-01-21T23:31:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-01-22T15:07:21.643-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Nope, Duh, Nope, Uh-huh, I Guess So</title><content type='html'>Those are the five most important answers to some very prevalent statements we hear today. OK, so I changed the answers a bit for the title of this post! In fact, this post is to provide the reader with enough information to develop a stronger argument against the fifth answer, "I Guess So." I intend to show that I believe the <a href="http://www.af.mil" rel="tag">Air Force</a> is changing drastically enough that the answer should be, "Nope." My previous post, <a href="http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/sleeping-giant-youve-got-zeus-dancin.html">the giant is now awake and dancing on the enemy's head</a>, is threaded through this post and then ends at the follow on post to come. These three posts are in order, for a reason - like a friendship bracelet! (sorry, my oldest daughter is into these things ... wha' ?? how does a bracelet ... never mind, back to earth) Let me first provide some background for this post. Colonel Richard Fullerton's article, <a href="http://www.airpower.maxwell.af.mil/airchronicles/apj/apj05/win05/fullerton.html">"The Future: Oil, America, and the Air Force"</a>, can be found in the latest <a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014299">Air and Space Power Journal (Winter 2005, Volume XIX, No. 4)</a>. Colonel Fullerton is professor and head of the US Air Force Academy's Department of Economics and Geography. He also credits and thanks Duane Chapman of Cornell University for some, as Colonel Fullerton puts it, "... insightful comments." There is an extensive amount of information in his article, and I have brought quite a bit of it here. The reason is that there is so much disinformation out there on this subject. To have a valid argument we need to be on the same plane with the same information, not conjecture and less than factual points of view driving the debate. What I think is key to agree upon is a subject that many take very little time to understand, yet they feel very strongly about their answer(s). When you bring up the subject of oil, folks either in the Air Force, or not, have some idea about a world view and can argue with confidence. But to take the time to study the conflict and the facts that are rooted in economics provides a better platform from which to argue. Really, this subject has bugged me ever since I stood on the flightline launching KC-135 tankers. We sent a TON of fuel into flight! Can we keep doing this? I mean, what we hear is the old faithful line from the regurgitators of pap, "The World is Running Out of Oil": Wrong Did you know that these purveyors of re-pap have been saying this for more than a 100 years?! Colonel Fullerton writes that geologist Kenneth Deffeyes put a date on when the world would be out of oil. Deffeyes said that, "world oil production will reach its ultimate peak on Thanksgiving Day 2005." Yet the US Geological Survey reports "the mean estimate of the world's recoverable oil" to be at three trillion barrels. Colonel Fullerton states that is "more than three times the amount the world consumed in the entire twentieth century!" The US Energy Information Administration put a guess on the table for peak consumption to be about 2037. Just remember, there are two very large countries that are dramatically increasing their consumption of the world's oil supply - that to come later. But, what about the fact that "The United States is Running Out of Oil": Irrelevant The one thing we all need to understand: no matter what, the world price is set by a world market and that oil is a "fungible commodity", folks. Colonel Fullerton shows that even if the United States was completely self-sufficient and provided it's own supply domestically, we are still vulnerable to "oil shocks" from the world market. Colonel Fullerton provides proof using the British gasoline debacle in September of 2000. As he writes: <blockquote>"Britain's North Sea fields produced far more oil than the country needed domestically, but when the price of oil rose, it did so worldwide. British consumers felt the same pinch in their pocketbooks that we felt in America and that the Japanese felt in Asia." </blockquote>Oil prices rose in unison, worldwide, regardless of the location of source or production. The slidebars are all tied together. I think of it this way: to change the values of my Technics stereo equalizer I bought at the Audio Visual Club on base at Rhein Main AFB in 1983, I'd use a stick across all the keys (lame, I know, but that's reality). No matter what, changes take effect across the whole spectrum (worldwide) not just one frequency (country). Now this seems to always lead everyone into my favorite, "An Oil Embargo is a Threat to the United States": Wrong Just because the "Middle East has two-thirds of the world's remaining proved oil reserves" doesn't mean you need to get your knickers in a twist. No matter what, oil is going to end up in the hands of whoever can pay the price. In simple terms Colonel Fullerton says it best: <blockquote>"Just as the global market for oil prevents us from achieving oil independence, so does it ensure that no country has a practical way of embargoing the United States, beyond a merely symbolic gesture." </blockquote>I am sure that you are screaming at your monitor saying, "The oil embargo of 1973 is proof that our prices got jacked to the ceiling, you moron!" My answer is simple enough and I'll coin the phraseology of a previous administration, "It's international trade and domestic economic policies, stupid!" Colonel Fullerton provides the reason through the words of Jerry Taylor and Peter Van Doren of the Cato Institute: <blockquote>"price controls imposed in 1971 by the Nixon administration prevented major oil companies from passing on the full cost of imported crude to consumers at the pump. "Big Oil" did the only sensible thing: it cut back on imports and stopped selling oil to independent service stations in order to keep its own franchises supplied. By the summer of 1973, gasoline prices were exploding, pumps were running dry, and long lines were commonplace. And that was before the Arab oil embargo or production cutbacks were announced." </blockquote>Look, we are affected if production is cut and limits on the sale of oil are imposed on everyone. Oil exporters are more dependent on us, the consumers, than we are on them. Did you know that 85% of export revenues in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran, and Iraq are all from oil? There is no other primary revenue generator from these regions. Let's face it, it's an arid, desolate place - ask the troops! And no matter what you hear out there, the two largest exporters - Saudi Arabia and Iran - have different politics and differing views when it comes to dealing with the United States. That said, what about the tried and true, "Oil Will Continue to be a Catalyst for Conflict": Right The Middle East can take this one to the bank: "at $50 a barrel, the estimated value of recoverable oil in the Middle East comes to roughly $77 trillion - more than five times the US gross domestic product." Yeah, he said 77 TRILLION DOLLARS Do you think there'd be a conflict? Sheesh, everyone in the world needs oil, and China and India are increasing their own demands at an ever accelerating rate. Another world war could put this whole thing into a situation that is worse than the effects of the United States and coalition forces working to stabilize the Middle East. Right from the Colonel's article regarding consumption rates, the "United States is expected to increase over the next decade at an annual rate of about 1.5 percent, oil consumption in China is forecast to grow almost 6 percent per year." Hello! That is 4x our consumption rate, folks. If you think we consume an unbelievable amount of oil, wake up! If China is at 6% what do you think is going on in India with all the outsourcing and manufacturing of US consumable products? To be honest with ourselves, this is going to be true until we get this under control, like now! And, Colonel Fullerton's last cloak room statement heard in the halls of say, the Pentagon, "Energy's Future in the Air Force Will Look Much Like its Recent Past": Disappointing but True Now, the Colonel states as oil prices rise and supplies become ever increasingly more volatile that: <ul><li>R&D into "alternative energy sources and technologies will proliferate"</li><li>the "public will not flock to them until the become economical"</li><li>transition "to new energy sources will take an evolutionary rather than revolutionary path"</li><li>consumers "will gravitate towards more efficient diesel engines and hybrid gas/electric autos"</li><li>the utility companies "will move from oil for electricity generation"</li><li>the oil industry "will explore and develop previously unprofitable oil fields and bitumen deposits"</li><li>the oil industry "will begin producing escalating quantities of synthetic liquid fuels from natural gas and coal"</li><li>better batteries "will spur the commercial development and marketing of plug-in" hybrid vehicles using gas or "coal-based methanol engines"</li><li>the clunky and awkward "hydrogen fuel cells will not become a leading energy source for private autos before the second half of the century - if ever"</li></ul>All these may ring true, and I believe that everything he has listed is true or will be true very soon. Colonel Fullerton asserts that the Air Force will continue to consume in the same manner. I, however, believe that there is a fundamental shift in strategy, operations, and tactics <a href="http://officersclub.blogspot.com/2006/01/informational-graphic-of-day.html">(Charlie Munn at The Officers' Club has a great graphic to help)</a> that shapes the consumption of fuels and energy in a very significant way. He lists all the big-honkers (aircraft) that slurp fuel like a teenager on a hot day with free Icee refills at the local 7-Eleven! I don't buy it. There are a few new birds crossing the horizon at sunset now, and there are more on the drawing board. There are changes to our defense shield that reduces our reliance and consumption of all fuels. There are changes taking place through joint forces operations that have reduced staff <a href="http://www.airpower.maxwell.af.mil/airchronicles/apj/apj05/win05/beason.html">(combatants per square kilometer, remember?)</a> and their vehicles required to move personnel and materiel. There are minor, and OK major, changes to equipment that make our fighting forces so much more efficient and less reliant on vehicles, be that aircraft, ground vehicles, or ships, that once again prove out to consume less and less product (fuels and other energy sources [nuclear, etc]). I believe that we're reducing our consumption rate and capable of stabilizing the Middle East at the same time. In fact, this is the best thing we can do, for everyone! Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113796962192467317/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113796962192467317' title='3 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113796962192467317'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113796962192467317'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/nope-duh-nope-uh-huh-i-guess-so.html' title='Nope, Duh, Nope, Uh-huh, I Guess So'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>3</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113766342368281643</id><published>2006-01-18T23:54:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-01-19T01:37:03.806-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Sleeping Giant? You've Got Zeus Dancin' on Your Head!</title><content type='html'>When will they ever learn? You taunt us with your words, we glare and take it all in. You poke us on the shoulder, we muster our control and size up the enemy. You poke us in the eye, we turn to collect our mettle - and then we take control. You strike any of us down, we bring it on, full force, with confidence, alacrity, and accuracy that could put an atomic clock to shame! As has been a constant thread in my previous postings, science and technology have propelled the United States Military into uncharted territory: less manpower required to prosecute a war, with surgical precision, at greater distances, with excessively marginal casualty numbers. Strategy, tactics, mixed forces, and combined mission goals are taking the fight to foreign soil like no one has ever seen before. In the latest <a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014299">Air and Space Power Journal (Winter 2005, Volume XIX, No. 4)</a> I was pleasantly surprised by the story entitled, "The War Fighter's Need for Science and Technology". The analysis provided by the authors Dr. J. Douglas Beason, Colonel, USAF, Retired* and Dr. Mark Lewis was outstanding. It's amazing what one can learn in a few short moments of reading. I knew in my heart back in 1984 that the future of the United States Air Force was beyond what anyone could dream. I was asked to assist our brothers down the flightline, the 7th SOS, in installing new technology on a few birds. When I was told how the accuracy of this new technology would dawn a new era in warfare, I believed it but wondered how we'd make it happen. Our systems were clunky, big, heavy, and, well, finicky! As the scientists of the 50's through the 80's would soon prove, the giant may have looked asleep, but he was thinking the whole time. This opening paragraph says it all: <blockquote>"Since the beginning of World War II, we have seen the introduction of radar, precision-guided weapons, atomic bombs, ballistic missiles, transistors, semiconductors, computers, jet aircraft, stealth technology, satellites, cell phones, lasers, the global positioning system (GPS), and so forth. The list of scientific and technical applications in warfare is staggering. Each of these technologies has had a profound impact on the way we fight and, equally importantly, on the way we keep our war fighters out of harm's way. Furthermore, the pace of inserting winning technology is increasing. In the millennia since humankind has kept records, estimates indicate that the world has seen a doubling -- a 100 percent growth -- in knowledge from the dawn of time until the 1950s. That knowledge, which has doubled several times since then, has spilled over to the war fighter. In many cases, it has actually been driven by his or her needs." </blockquote>What a mouthful! For those of you that remember, warfare was tough, dirty, deadly, and expansive. The campaign theater required multiple managers to prosecute any war. Varying levels of strategy managers and tactical leaders required staggering numbers of combatants to take the field. As Dr. Beason writes, the number density of combatants (the number per square kilometer) has decreased over the years due to: <blockquote>"... the introduction of state-of-the-art weapons. One may understand the increase in firepower by considering the way technology has enabled fewer war fighters to levy more damage at a longer distance: the range of a spear was extended by the bow and arrow, whose range was extended by the bullet, whose range was extended by the artillery shell, whose range was extended even farther by missile technology. New technologies such as hypersonic missiles, which can cover hundreds of miles in a matter of minutes, or directed-energy weapons, which can engage the enemy at the speed of light, allow us to extend a weapon's range beyond national borders or even around the world, reducing manpower density on the battlefield even further." </blockquote>The numbers of combatants that take the field looks like this: <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/Winter2005_ManpowerDensity_Fig1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/Winter2005_ManpowerDensity_Fig1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.airpower.maxwell.af.mil/airchronicles/apj/apj05/win05/beasonfig1.jpg">Figure 1. Manpower density on the battlefield</a> <a href="http://www.airpower.maxwell.af.mil/airchronicles/apj/apj05/win05/beasonfig1.jpg">(From data in Kenneth L. Adelman and Norman R. Augustine, The Defense Revolution: Intelligent Downsizing of America’s Military [San Francisco: Institute for Contemporary Studies Press, 1990], 55; and from Cable News Network.)</a> </div> Did you see it?! Just take WWII and the Gulf War. Per square kilometer for WWII, we needed 2,200 combatants to be in the fight, and in the Gulf War only 0.5 combatants per square kilometer were required! AND WE DID NOT HAVE UAVs AND UCAVs YET! And, this is only the first two paragraphs! I mean, his next point is the effectiveness of the military. I'll really condense what he provided into a short list: <ol><li>Bullets (1500AD) have a military effectiveness of 102 or 100 times greater than arrows (1000AD)</li><li>ICBMs (1970AD) are 108 or 100 million times more effective than artillery (1900AD)</li><li>Lasers (2020AD) as 10 billion times more effective than the same artillery (1900AD)</li></ol>They always say that a picture can say so much more. Well, check out this graph and the accompanying little nuggets that follow: <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/Winter2005_MilitaryEffectiveness_Fig2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/Winter2005_MilitaryEffectiveness_Fig2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.airpower.maxwell.af.mil/airchronicles/apj/apj05/win05/beasonfig2.jpg">Figure 2. Military effectiveness through the years</a> <a href="http://www.airpower.maxwell.af.mil/airchronicles/apj/apj05/win05/beasonfig2.jpg">(From data in Simon P. Worden, SDI and the Alternatives [Washington, DC: National Defense University Press, 1991].)</a> </div> <blockquote>"Although military tactics and strategy have played a role in increasing the effectiveness of these weapons, advances in military effectiveness stem chiefly from the exploitation of science and technology..." "... the dramatic increase in such effectiveness on a logarithmic scale; that is, the vertical axis of the figure shows exponential powers of 10, so the maximum value of 25 is not a simple factor of five greater than 20 but 105 — 100,000 times greater."</blockquote> He said 100,000 times! Here, some hard numbers: <blockquote>"To hit a 200,000 square foot German factory in World War II with a 96 percent chance of success required a squadron of 108 B-17 bombers (carrying 1,080 aircrew members and 648 bombs) and approximately 100 single-seat escort fighters, bringing the total force to nearly 1,200 human lives. Typically, 15 of the bombers and their 150 men would not make it back home." "Today we could perform the same mission either with a single F-117 stealth fighter dropping two precision-guided bombs or with one cruise missile. Furthermore, to date only one F-117 has ever been shot down in combat." "In the 45 years between World War II and the first Gulf War, the average miss distance of a bomb decreased from over half a mile to 10 feet." "... we are reaping the benefits of decades of investment in S&T. Weapon systems from the F-22 to the airborne laser owe their existence to years of aggressive, vigorous Air Force support of S&amp;T investments." </blockquote> <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/E4_WithLaser.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/E4_WithLaser.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014299">The airborne laser: a uniquely modified 747-400 freighter designed to shoot</a> <a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014299">down ballistic missiles during their boost phase</a> </div> OK, now for the funny quotes and technological strides comparisons ... rich, just rich! QUOTES <blockquote>"In 1921, when told of Billy Mitchell's claim that airplanes could sink battleships, Secretary of War Newton Baker growled, "That idea is so damned nonsensical and impossible that I'm willing to stand on the bridge of a battleship while that nitwit tries to hit it from the air." "Similarly, in 1938 Maj Gen John K. Herr remarked, "We must not be misled to our own detriment to assume that the untried machine can displace the tried and proven horse." "And in 1939, Rear Adm Clark Woodward sniffed, "As far as sinking a ship with a bomb is concerned, it just can't be done." "More recently, some individuals even scoffed at precision-guided weapons: "Who would need to be so precise when a grease pencil mark on the cockpit window has worked for years?" "Others decried the Airborne Warning and Control System [AWACS] aircraft for controlling the air battlefield: "The Soviets did this and lost!"</blockquote> TIME BETWEEN INVENTION AND INNOVATION <blockquote>Fluorescent lamp, 79 years Gyrocompass, 56 years Cotton picker, 53 years Zipper, 27 years Jet engine, 14 years Radar, 13 years Safety razor, nine years Wireless telephone, eight years</blockquote> This is truly a great read! A bit hefty in price but it is full of great history, new technology, and future training advancements. * Portions of <a href="http://www.airpower.maxwell.af.mil/airchronicles/apj/apj05/win05/win05.pdf">[the article from Air and Space Power Journal]</a> come from Dr. Beason’s book DOD Science and Technology: Strategy for the Post–Cold War Era (Washington, DC: National Defense University Press, 1997). Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113766342368281643/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113766342368281643' title='8 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113766342368281643'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113766342368281643'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/sleeping-giant-youve-got-zeus-dancin.html' title='Sleeping Giant? You've Got Zeus Dancin' on Your Head!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>8</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113726115262851473</id><published>2006-01-14T09:45:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-01-14T10:38:45.386-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Mrs. Reagan Christens the "Spirit of Ronald Reagan"</title><content type='html'>Yesterday was a great day for the dedicated Airmen at March AFB. The eighth, and final, delivery of a <a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014277">C-17 Globemaster III was christened by Mrs. Nancy Reagan</a>. I am sure that for her, this was a beautiful, yet poignant ceremony - her best friend Ronnie was not by her side. (those who know, know, she always called him "Ronnie" [not me]) <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/MrsReagan1_060113-F-8164Z-004.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/MrsReagan1_060113-F-8164Z-004.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=15280761">Mrs. Reagan ecorted through the guard by Lt. General John Bradley [Courtesy Photo] </a> </div> Through a scene that is always powerful, a red carpet flanked by the guard, Lieutenant General John Bradley escorted Mrs. Reagan to the observation area. Even though Mrs. Reagan, a spry 84 years young, did not speak to the crowd, she did provide a few words for the ceremony: <blockquote>"Ronnie believed that it is the responsibility of every American to help guard the freedoms we hold dear. So I know he would be especially pleased that this plane will be flown by citizen aircrews, providing support for our troops fighting in faraway lands." </blockquote>I think it is amazing that in all these years, this woman's attention to detail when it comes to the written and spoken word is still at the forefront. The key words are, "citizen aircrews", where she is paying a special commendation to the Air Force Reserves and Air National Guard. It is true that the major compliment of our fine Airmen are active duty. And often times, the Air National Guard and the Air Force Reserves are sometimes a tad bit overlooked - except in a time of war. Mrs. Reagan knows, and so did our former President Ronald Reagan know, that our Reserve and Guard forces are a very important part of our national defense, and very deserving of the respect and admiration of the entire country! If you all have forgotten, President Reagan served in the Army Reserve and Army Air Corps during World War II! He holds a special place in the heart of the United States Military as he, and only he, brought us back from the brink of extinction. After so much strife, derision, defunding, hamstringing, and external bickering (outside the US Military), one man's vision returned our brave fighting forces back to the worlds greatest fighting force! As California Congressman Kenneth Calvert put so succinctly: <blockquote>"The fact that our Airmen are equipped with unsurpassed military assets like the C-17 is a testament to those leaders, especially President Reagan, who demonstrated the commitment to sustaining our military strength." </blockquote> <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/MrsReagan2_060113-F-0697K-058.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/MrsReagan2_060113-F-0697K-058.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=15280761">Mrs. Reagan and Lt. General John Bradley, Mrs. Jan Bradley, and </a> <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=15280761">Maj. General Robert E. Duignan </a><a href="post-create.g?blogID=15280761"> [Courtesy Photo]</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=15280761"> </a> </div> I couldn't have said it better. Yet, Lt. General Bradley added this extra point to the spear by saying that President Reagan had: <blockquote>"the vision to provide the kind of capabilities that we need today." </blockquote>It is sad that President Reagan was not able to see his vision come to fruition. He died June 5, 2004, at the amazing age of 93. Just two more years and he would have seen <a href="http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/c-17-spirit-of-ronald-reagan.html">"his" C-17</a>, <a href="http://capnbob.us/blog/?p=229">"his" aircraft carrier</a>, and the <a href="http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/baby-raptors-first-steps-how-cute.html">F-22A become operational</a>. Hmmm. As the ceremony continued, Lt. General Bradley said: <blockquote>"The C-17 has phenomenal capability and flexibility. It can go into places that many other airplanes cannot. It can carry huge loads (and) great numbers of troops into very austere environments. It will help the Air Force in its continued war on terror." "This aircraft will fly around the world and do wonderful things for America and for many other people. It will deliver troops and equipment (and) deliver humanitarian supplies to people around the world who've never seen anything from America." </blockquote>A beautiful day for the team at March AFB. It is a <a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014277">great story</a> provided by Senior Master Sergeant Matt Proietti of the 452nd Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs at <a href="http://www.af.mil">AF.mil</a>. Good thing that the weather held, until today - raining again in sunny California ... Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113726115262851473/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113726115262851473' title='6 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113726115262851473'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113726115262851473'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/mrs-reagan-christens-spirit-of-ronald.html' title='Mrs. Reagan Christens the "Spirit of Ronald Reagan"'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>6</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113721177144352210</id><published>2006-01-13T20:01:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-01-13T20:09:31.460-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Baby Raptor's First Steps - HOW CUTE!</title><content type='html'>Alright, this is when the Air Force really puts her best foot forward! The Navy has beautiful ceremonies for all to see, like christening a new flat-top or destroyer or boomer. But, for aero-Nuts like myself, nothing raises major goose bumps like chocks being pulled to release a new bird! What on earth possessed the Air Force to create such a Big Honkin' Bird like this, anyway? Be the biggest, baddest, fastest, deadliest, and meanest in the sky? And why not?! From Sky to Space, no one tops the U.S. Air Force! Today, as the press release went out about the <a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014260">F-22A being released for flight ready ops</a>, our <a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014270">little Baby Raptor took her first steps!</a> The 1st Fighter Wing is a VERY PROUD MAMA today! (i've got serious hard rock goin' in the background while i typed the <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=15280761">last post</a> and this one - ahhh, the office is rockin' - can i get a FLY BY PLEASE!?) I mean, really, can we have some ABs trashin' the neighborhood? I waaaannnnaaaaa have a RAPTOR! <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/F22_Dedication_060104-F-2295B-033.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/F22_Dedication_060104-F-2295B-033.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060113-F-4109K-021.jpg">[U.S. Air Force photograph by Senior Airman Austin Knox]</a> </div> Sorry, got a little carried away there. Hey, not to worry, it's not like their gonna let me fly one! 2nd Lieutenant Rachel Sherburne of the 1st Fighter Wing Public Affairs office writes: <blockquote>"The IOC declaration proves the F-22A is mission ready. The base now has 19 Raptors." "The 27th FS -- the Air Force's oldest fighter squadron -- is now the first operational unit to fly the service's newest fighter aircraft." </blockquote>The oldest fighter squadron is graced with the newest and brightest. Sounds good to me! Wing Commander Brigadier General Burton Field basically nudged the Baby Raptor on her first steps with this statement: <blockquote>"This next generation fighter can now be employed by combatant commanders and the national command authority for various missions both at home and in other areas of responsibility." </blockquote>Everyone was there to watch her take her first steps (well, OK, except us!). The Air Force Vice Chief of Staff General John Corley, former Air Force Secretary Dr. James Roche, and retired and former Air Force Chief of Staff General John Jumper. During the ceremony, the guest speaker, General John Corley said: <blockquote>"I can't thank each of you enough. You all played a critical role. Your children and children's children will reap the benefits of the technology (of this aircraft)." </blockquote>Wing Commander General Burton Field said, and this is my favorite: <blockquote>"This aircraft, and more importantly, the people who have brought it to the realm of operational flying, deserve to celebrate and be celebrated." </blockquote>Yeah, this is a great day! We get a new C-17 at March AFB christened as the <a href="http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/c-17-spirit-of-ronald-reagan.html">"Spirit of Ronald Reagan"</a> and the Raptor's First Baby Steps. It really is sad that the Raptor's Grand Father, President Ronald Reagan, was not there to see her cross the hangar floor ... at least, maybe there's a few old warriors up there above the clouds sharing it with him? Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113721177144352210/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113721177144352210' title='2 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113721177144352210'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113721177144352210'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/baby-raptors-first-steps-how-cute.html' title='Baby Raptor's First Steps - HOW CUTE!'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>2</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113720772045068507</id><published>2006-01-13T18:58:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-01-13T19:31:22.636-08:00</updated><title type='text'>F-22A ...:FLIGHT.:.READY.:.TO.:.FIGHT:...</title><content type='html'>Today, thanks to AF.mil, here's the best few paragraphs giving the GREEN LIGHT to the F-22A: <blockquote><a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123014260">Release Number: 050106</a> 1/13/2006 - KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center recently completed the F-22A Raptor Follow-on Operational Test and Evaluation and has rated the Air Force's newest fighter as mission capable in the air-to-ground role. "This was a significant milestone in terms of validating the F-22A's combat capability," said Major General Robin Scott, AFOTEC commander. "We are confident we have provided Air Combat Command and senior Air Force leaders with an accurate and complete picture not only of the Raptor's impressive operational capabilities but also where additional resources can be focused to further mature and sustain this 21st Century fighter." </blockquote>Oh yeah! There is one more bit of good news, and that is in a follow on post. Right now, I'd be worried if I were on the receiving end of any F-22A sortie. <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/F22_Clouds_060104-F-2295B-033.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/F22_Clouds_060104-F-2295B-033.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060104-F-2295B-033.jpg">[U. S. Air Force Photo by TSgt Ben Bloker]</a> </div> <div style="text-align: center;">SWEEEEEEET! </div> Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113720772045068507/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113720772045068507' title='3 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113720772045068507'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113720772045068507'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/f-22a-flightreadytofight.html' title='F-22A ...:FLIGHT.:.READY.:.TO.:.FIGHT:...'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>3</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113687582884435738</id><published>2006-01-09T22:25:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-01-11T23:34:17.610-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Long Convoy - Brothers in Blues</title><content type='html'>If asked, I bet everyone out there thinks that all the Air Force does is fly stuff around and send Stealth Aircraft in to take out a radio tower or two. Maybe some of you have bumped into some AFSOS folks - yeah, they actually carry weapons and get to shoot stuff. I know that, while shipping in and out or rotating from your duty station, you've seen the SPs (Security Police) on the Flightline, securing the entry points, or maybe on the perimeter in the tree line (and some you don't see). How many of you have bumped into a convoy, and as the convoy team jumps out, see some "upside down chevrons" on the sleeve? How many of you have been in the chow hall line and noticed something sorta outta place - like, somebody said "Air Force" and "Mike 88" in the same breath? <a href="http://www.af.mil" rel="tag">AF.mil</a> has a great story that I tripped over while traversing the web. The story is about the <a href="http://www.af.mil/news/story.asp?storyID=123013929">Airmen of the 424th Medium Truck Detachment</a> and their primary mission: move the U.S. Army 4th Infantry Division's supplies and materiel from Kuwait into Iraq. The trips are long, the danger is real, and this team loves the mission! <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/BrothersInBlue4_060105-F-0000S-008.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/BrothersInBlue4_060105-F-0000S-008.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060105-F-0000S-008.jpg">[U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Scott Campbell]</a> </div> If you looked at anyone assigned to a convoy and they were in an Air Force chow hall line with folks from the flightline and CBPO (Central Base Personnel Office), I think you'd find it hard to tell their specialty. I know that unless I knew the person because I either saw them on the flightline, or in a shop, or at CBPO, the only way was their hat! (FMS, AMS, OMS, ok, I'm dating myself here). When I was at Rhein Main AFB, we all wore an FMS cap. I worked in avionics (AMS), and I am still proud to have been in the 435th FMS, mind you, but I'm making a point. These Air Force folks are wearing the same hats and BDUs - they all blend in with one another! Yet, in the Army, if you are in a chow hall line at a new post, one glance at someone's patches or cover and you can start a quick conversation. In fact, I bet it is pretty easy to find somewhere to sit with folks talking about the same stuff. The bond is quick and the stories are often new. Sometimes you find out that that one story was a myth 'cause you're sitting right next to the subject of the story! Even in war or peace the Army can find someone in the same specialty and strike up a friendship pretty quickly. And here, they are all one: <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/BrothersInBlue1_060105-F-0000S-013.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/BrothersInBlue1_060105-F-0000S-013.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060105-F-0000S-013.jpg">[U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Scott Campbell]</a> </div> This photo jumped right out at me! Whether in green or blue the mission is clear. This whole team watches out for one another, and a higher power is watching over them. It's great that they take the time to share a prayer that they all make it through safely. The Air Force has a limited few visual distinctions. Sometimes there is a badge or insignia, but mostly we all have the same stuff. Planes are all the same, except for their two letter base codes on the tail. There really isn't any way to pick out any one team, but then I saw the door on their vehicle! <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/BrothersInBlue2_OuttaMyWay_424thMTD.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/BrothersInBlue2_OuttaMyWay_424thMTD.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060105-F-0000S-012.jpg">[taken from a photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant Scott Campbell]</a> </div> Now, that says, "I'm coming so get outta my way!" This whole team approaches their mission with conviction and ease. I really liked this part of the story: <blockquote>"... a few decided to have breakfast before stretching out on a cot. The dining facility was crowded and more than a few looks were directed toward the convoy Airmen -- the only "non-Army" troops in the building." </blockquote>Then, Technical Sergeant Bill Bellmore's quote about chow hall lines - Army chow hall lines: <blockquote>"It's the same thing everywhere we go, Soldiers always ask, 'What are you [Air Force people] doing here?'" </blockquote>Funny looks and questions - not bad, just, Huh?! Is there an Air Force base around here we didn't know anything about?! I've only experienced this once on a TDY (Flintlock), and it was pretty funny. Being so different, I found LOTS of people to talk to because everyone else wanted to know what I was doing in their chow hall (not in a bad way, just, Huh?!) Once they have delivered their cargo on the first leg of the trip, their next job is to backhaul stuff heading out of Iraq. As Sergeant Bellmore said: <blockquote>"We've got one Army division moving in and one going out. That's a lot of cargo." </blockquote>This team takes care of their vehicles and do "pre-flight" checks before hitting the road. <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/BrothersInBlue3_060105-F-0000S-011.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/BrothersInBlue3_060105-F-0000S-011.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060105-F-0000S-011.jpg">[U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Scott Campbell]</a> </div> They are a self-sufficient unit, as is everyone in the U.S. Military. You bring what you need and you request what you forgot -- or realize you need now, 'cause the mission has changed. So, in comes the 424th to get it to you. <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/BrothersInBlue2a_060105-F-0000S-012.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/BrothersInBlue2a_060105-F-0000S-012.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/060105-F-0000S-008.jpg">[U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Scott Campbell]</a> </div> It turns out that the Airmen surprise lots of Soldiers. The team says that even though they get the same reactions every time they stop, it doesn't bother them. They like explaining what it is they do, and that the Air Force is there to move stuff on the ground too - not just the air. As Airman Ginocchio said: <blockquote>"We're the equivalent of '88 Mike's.' But we drive anything." </blockquote>Seems the team even surprises Soldiers using the right lingo for what they do. The writer, Staff Sergeant Scott Campbell of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs, said the following: <blockquote>"Almost every time, the surprise came with a look of newfound respect. Because, while this convoy was safe, the roads of Iraq are deadly. Convoys must brave improvised explosive devices, hostile fire and other enemy activity on a trip. That is in addition to the common, everyday road hazards most are familiar with." "But each day, Airmen conducting convoys is a more common sight." </blockquote>The best quote, I think is from Senior Airman Marchuk. He he doesn't mind the questions and looks from the Soldiers, because: <blockquote>"No matter what branch of service you're in, if you're called to do something, you have to do what you have to do." </blockquote>Well said. Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a> <hr /> UPDATE: Missing some credits to other blogs I just read, thanks to the <a href="http://officersclub.blogspot.com/2006/01/behind-picture-soldiers-and-airman.html">Officer's Club</a>, that they had posted the photo of the USAF and USA team sharing a prayer for their safetly and a successful mission. The photo is amazing, and I didn't know that they had posted it last week. So, belated HT to the <a href="http://officersclub.blogspot.com/2006/01/picture-of-day_06.html">Officer's Club!</a> Oh, and they linked <a href="http://officersclub.blogspot.com/2006/01/behind-picture-soldiers-and-airman.html">back to me today</a> in reference to this article. Thanks again, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113687582884435738">Officer's Club!</a> MaryAnn over at <a href="http://www.sablogs.com/index.php?blog=40">Soldiers' Angels Germany</a>, also had the <a href="http://sablogs.com/index.php?blog=40&amp;title=photo_of_the_day&more=1&amp;c=1&tb=1&amp;pb=1">photo</a>. Wow, I must have really been out of it this last week (did have a bad cold, but). Thanks MaryAnn for leaving kind word in the comments here, too.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div></content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/feeds/113687582884435738/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=15280761&postID=113687582884435738' title='6 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113687582884435738'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/15280761/posts/default/113687582884435738'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://linkedinusaf.blogspot.com/2006/01/long-convoy-brothers-in-blues.html' title='Long Convoy - Brothers in Blues'/><author><name>LinkedInUSAF Founder</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/09265567695804034234</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>6</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15280761.post-113678735205901984</id><published>2006-01-08T21:52:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-01-08T22:49:19.973-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Optimism Trumps Fear #11</title><content type='html'><a href="http://LinkedInUSAF.blogspot.com" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a> is puttin' on the <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/release_list.asp" rel="tag">CENTCOM</a> wrap-up for week 1 of CY2006. This is actually the first week of the year and the first posting! We'll get to this quickly since there aren't a ton of stories from the <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/release_list.asp" rel="tag">CENTCOM</a> site. We have more positive than negative - and last week was pretty hectic. For the stuff I like to talk about, we have on tap: 3 separate captured weapons cache stories, Joint Forces to work on a security berm (giant speed-bump to keep out the riff-raff!), and recon stops an IED emplacement. TONS of ordnance was seized this last week! Three separate stories really show how hard everyone is working to reduce the terror network's ability to intimidate and kill. First, <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/release_list.asp" rel="tag">CENTCOM</a> reports on <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060102.txt">Operation Green Trident</a> which is U.S. Marines of the First Reconnaissance Battalion, Regimental Combat Team 8, captured 72, yes I said SEVENTY TWO caches over the last week! This equaled ten metric tons for the 72 sites uncovered (at 2,200 pounds/metric ton we're at 22,000 pounds!?) They report about 1,000 artillery and mortar rounds plus RPGs and hand grenades. Great JOB! Second, <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060104.txt">Iraqi and MNDCS Soldiers nabbed some pretty bad stuff</a>: 75 mines, 40 artillery and mortar rounds, 7 RPG launchers and 69 rounds, 50 hand grenades, and some sniper rifles, machine guns, and explosive material. That's some bad stuff, and a good thing it's out of the terrorists hands! Third, <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060105.txt">this next story was so peppered with stuff</a> that I have to put it all into list form: <ul><li>Task Force Band of Brothers snagged 4 caches and 11 terrorists</li><li>One group of the 101st Airborne Div. 1st BCT netted 8 terrorists (3 on the run and 5 in the truck) and lots of weapons and explosives (RPGs and launchers, machine guns, and IED making materials)</li><li>Another group of the 101st Airborne Div. 1st BCT picked up 3 terrorists and 30 pistols (hmmm, 1 gun per person doesn't fly in California!)</li><li>The local gentry said we could find some bad stuff, and told us where - turns out it was approximately 6,000 anti-aircraft artillery rounds</li><li>Another 25 artillery rounds was discovered - we transported it, then destroyed it (hmmm, fire in the hole!)</li></ul>That's a bunch of stuff in just one posting! In an effort to transfer security over to the Iraqis, there has been a ton of training going on at every level. One outfit that is committed to this mission is MNSTC. The team at MNSTC coordinate operations to help Iraqis learn new tactics and strategies to the point where they can then assume complete control. In this specific story the <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060110.txt">101st Airborne, 3rd BCT works with local leaders to build a berm</a> with watch towers to protect their village. As marked use of IEDs is increasing, 80% of the time it is the civilian population that is killed or injured. In As Siniyah, a small village near Bayji in northern Salah ad Din Province, local police, city council members, sheiks and religious leaders met with leaders from the 101st Airborne, 1st Squadron, 33rd Cavalry Regiment(Air Assault). Captain Christopher Judge, 101st Airborne, 3rd BCT, discusses the operation whereby a berm will be built that is approximately 10 kilometers in length and nearly eight feet in height - with guard towers to control entry points into the village. These entry points will be guarded by Iraqi police officers and soldiers. <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/screen_20060106132624_9berm-20060106.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/screen_20060106132624_9berm-20060106.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Jan2006/screen_20060106132624_9berm-20060106.jpg">[U.S. Army photo of Capt. Christopher Judge, 101st Airborne, 3rd BCT and local leaders]</a> </div> This should work - a desert moat, so to speak! And, last but not least, there is a story you may have seen on SMASH's page the <a href="http://www.militaryoutpost.net/2006/01/air_support_preempts_possible.html">Military Outpost</a> where he linked to <a href="http://officersclub.blogspot.com/2006/01/who-says-we-arent-fighting-smarter.html">the Officer's Club</a>. The story is about a UAV that caught some bad little boneheads messin' around trying to emplace an IED - BUSTED! As <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/release_list.asp" rel="tag">CENTCOM</a> reports, a UAV from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team (NOTE: I believe this is the <a href="http://defenselink.mil/news/Jan2006/20060106_3852.html">101st Airborne, 3rd BCT UAV</a>, not a USAF UAV/UCAV - see below) was patrolling a road near Bayji after 9PM on January 2nd, 2006. Some terrorists were digging a hole that looked to be the SOP for these scum, so the 3 men's position was relayed to close air support pilots. Once the bad-guys left the road site they were followed by a UCAV (there is a difference between UAV and UCAV) to a nearby building. The UCAV crew took aim and trashed the place - with them inside. <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/20060106103801_11iraq2uav-20061016.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/20060106103801_11iraq2uav-20061016.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Jan2006/20060106103801_11iraq2uav-20061016.jpg">[U.S. Army photo of Spc. Michael Rodenberg (left) and Sgt. Joshua Harris]</a> <a href="http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Jan2006/20060106103801_11iraq2uav-20061016.jpg">[Maryland Army Nat'l Guard's 39th BCT, 239th Military Intelligence Company]</a> </div> Now, for the difference between a <a href="http://www.acq.osd.mil/dsb/reports/uav.pdf">UAV</a> and a <a href="http://www.airpower.maxwell.af.mil/airchronicles/apj/apj02/sum02/chapman.html">UCAV</a>. The UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) is 99% of the time a recon bird only. The reason UCAV (unmanned or uninhabited combat aerial vehicle) came about is why not watch them from above, and if needed, prosecute termination immediately. The UCAV has a dual role in mission use because it can just watch or be employed to take out targets. UAVs watch and report. I believe that in all other branches than the U.S. Air Force, in theater at this time, the use of UAVs is prevalent. I believe that in this instance, the reporting team was the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne 3rd BCT, and they have quite a few UAVs (see photos below). <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/AIR_UAV_RQ-11_Raven_lg.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/AIR_UAV_RQ-11_Raven_lg.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/images/AIR_UAV_RQ-7A_Shadow_200_lg.jpg">[U.S. Army UAV RQ-11: Raven]</a> <a href="http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com">Photo compliments www.defenseindustrydaily.com</a> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/AIR_UAV_RQ-7A_Shadow_200_lg.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/AIR_UAV_RQ-7A_Shadow_200_lg.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/images/AIR_UAV_RQ-11_Raven_lg.jpg">[U.S. Army UAV RQ-7A: Shadow]</a> <a href="http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com">Photo compliments www.defenseindustrydaily.com</a> </div> As reported by <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/release_list.asp" rel="tag">CENTCOM</a>, once the activity was seen to be hostile to both U.S. Military personnel and civilians, the hand off came to the close air support pilots - who then prosecuted the termination of the terrorists. To fly and then fire is traditionally the task of the U.S. Air Force's two birds in the sky - the Predator (nice size and focused mission, used in joint branch missions) and the GlobalHawk (too big and broader mission). <a href="http://officersclub.blogspot.com/2006/01/who-says-we-arent-fighting-smarter.html">The Officer's Club has a snap of the GlobalHawk</a> for this mission, yet I think that this mission profile required the use of a UCAV in the Predator size (see photos below of these two UCAVs). <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/MQ1_Predator_AFPhoto050506-F-0000S-002.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/MQ1_Predator_AFPhoto050506-F-0000S-002.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/050506-F-0000S-002.jpg">[MQ-1 Predator - U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Colleen Wronek]</a> </div> <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/GlobalHawk_AFPhoto030320-F-0000B-001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/GlobalHawk_AFPhoto030320-F-0000B-001.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.af.mil/shared/media/photodb/photos/030320-F-0000B-001.jpg">[RQ-4A Global Hawk - Courtesy photo via AF.mil Photos]</a> </div> I am in the process of confirming the use of one or more UAV/UCAVs. I think it is a nice little side-project. I just hope that between <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/release_list.asp" rel="tag">CENTCOM</a> and <a href="http://www.centaf.af.mil">CENTAF</a> I can get an answer? Seems slim, but, gotta try - I love the exactness of a story and the joint tactical nature (U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force) of teams working together. One can hope! Alright, on to the links and the <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/release_list.asp" rel="tag">CENTCOM</a> wrap-up! <div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/1600/CENTCOM_Counts_010806.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/7273/1409/400/CENTCOM_Counts_010806.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/release_list.asp">[Ending January 8th, 2006]</a> </div> The GOOD = 5 <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060110.txt">Security Berm Under Construction</a> -- 01/06/2006 <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060105.txt">Weapons Seized, 11 Suspects Detained</a> -- 01/05/2006 <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060104.txt">Iraqi and MNDCS Soldiers Seize Cache</a> -- 01/04/2006 <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060103.txt">Air Support Preempts Possible IED Emplacement</a> -- 01/03/2006 <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060102.txt">Operation Green Trident Turns up 72 Caches</a> -- 01/02/2006 The SETBACKS = 3 <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060108.txt">Male Iraqi Detainee Dies</a> -- 01/05/2006 <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060106.txt">Suicide Bomb Explodes in Ramadi</a> -- 01/05/2006 <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060101.txt">Four U.S. Civilian Contractors Killed in Accident</a> -- 01/02/2006 The CORRECTIONS = 1 <a href="http://www.centcom.mil/CENTCOMNews/News_Release.asp?NewsRelease=20060107.txt">Suicide Bomb Explodes in Ramadi Update</a> -- 01/05/2006 Stay Tuned to ... <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/LinkedInUSAF" rel="tag">LinkedInUSAF</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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