Ordinarily I don't like seeing news that a police officer has been arrested. It's a kneejerk response brought on by being brought up to trust and respect law enforcement, having several friends and acquaintances in various agencies, and generally believing in what they do. It's a bias that I have to consciously set aside when writing an article, because they don't always get it … [Read more...]
#SayTheirNames: A Gold Star Daughter’s Final Project for 5th Grade
On July 10, 2017, a KC-130T Hercules aircraft of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) crashed in Leflore County, Mississippi, killing all 16 people on board. Aleah's father, William (Billy) Kundrat, was killed alongside his brothers in this tragic crash. Her 5th grade class was asked to do individual final projects this year. Aleah decided that she wanted to #saytheirnames and … [Read more...]
“Telling The Trauma:” What Happens in War
This article was originally published in May of 2018. The trauma of war and our ability to talk about it is a constant battle. Not all experiences are the same, and consideration of each has equal importance. 13 years ago, one of my non-commissioned officers died in an ambush (improvised explosive device) in the Al Anbar Province of Iraq. Not unlike other somber … [Read more...]
I Love You Still
I love you still. by BRITTA REQUE-DRAGICEVIC The words do not pour forth; they catch in my breasts, clutch at my throat, refuse to be told. I can’t write of finding your body, your warm blood melting the cold snow, the fixed gaze of your eyes forever staring into darkness. That same darkness I was not able to save you from. I can’t write of how my being tore in … [Read more...]
From Ritual to Reality: Because He Lives
Originally published March 27, 2016 by Scoti Domeij My annual nostalgia of Easter now blossoms in reverse. My firstborn was killed in Afghanistan in the fall of 2011, the wild season of skeletal trees surrendering their fiery leaves to swirl and spiral into oblivion. Winter’s crushing mourning forged ahead—unstoppable, bringing life as I knew it to an abrupt halt. … [Read more...]
Hope In Hell: Letters from Inside Auschwitz
"Without memory, there is no culture. Without memory, there would be no civilization, no society, no future." — Auschwitz survivor and author Elie Wiesel Do you ever come across a historic story that just enthralls your mind? A story that sends you into a tailspin of research, and you end up reading countless articles about some of the most silently, powerful human beings … [Read more...]
“No Tougher Duty, No Greater Honor” Part 1: Into the Fray Once Again
"No Tougher Duty, No Greater Honor" Part 1: Into the Fray Once Again by Gunnery Sergeant (retired) L. Christian Bussler Editor's Note: These excerpts are from the multi-award winning book “No Tougher Duty, No Greater Honor” and were provided by the book's author, Gunnery Sergeant (retired) L. Christian Bussler, who retains the copyrights. This an exclusive look into the … [Read more...]
Never Forgotten: The Deadliest Day During OIF
Written by Charlie Moose. In late January of 2005, the Lava Dawgs had just left the city of Fallujah after 75 days of some of the most intense, offensive operations of scale in the Iraq War. Everyone was elated to have survived. They were each given 2 beers per man as a late Christmas covenant. The snap and pop of aluminum cans gave clear indication to a temporary solace. … [Read more...]
The Remembrance Bracelet
Written by C.H. The metal edge clinks against the dining room table as he sits down for dinner. When he rests his hand on my back, I can feel the extra weight of it against my body. I can feel it digging into my flesh when we make love. Again, it's there as we snuggle on the couch. The sun catches the worn sides as he holds my daughter’s hands. At breakfast, lunch, and … [Read more...]
“Embryo Stage:” Remembering Special Operators Lost In Training
"Embryo Stage:" Remembering Special Operators Lost In Training by Wesley Jurena Authors's Note: I hung this out on a hidden blog I created years after getting out. It was picked up by Gallant Few a few years back so it may be a repeat for some. It has been said, “to whom much is given, much is expected.” As a member of the 75th, your given everything you could ask … [Read more...]
