DATE: 07/15/2008 12:16:38 / MOOD: contemplative

First of all, let me start out by saying I'm not a "softy"; probably just the opposite as I've just seen and done so much over the years that I'm kinda numb to a lot of things...

With that said, I want to address a situation that grows more serious each day.  Our older warriors are suffering from the obvious stains of their ages. This is however, compounded by what they have been exposed to; both physically and mentally while serving their Country (and us) throughout the years.

We have friends here at NS.com who we know are suffering these effects.  Further, a brother Ranger Advisor from Vietnam who was my immediate CO, and remains one of my best friends, is dying from his continued exposure to Agent Orange (look it up young people). 

He recently underwent open heart surgery for CHF, is 90% blind, and Tuesday they amputated his legs due to AO induced diabetes and an un-controllable stapf infection-amputate or die...Friends, he's 62!

I don't know how to do this here, but I want to maybe, within the forum, start a support/prayer group for ALL these warriors, regardless of their branch of service...If you know of someone, tell us and maybe we can write them, pray together-whatever it takes...

I'm not religious and would be the last person in the world to lead this, but I'm sure someone out there can just get it rolling.  Does NOT matter what religion you/we are-combined we might just ease some pain.  Many vets (young & older) on these sites are alone, and the friends thay make here are their only families.

I'm lucky; I have great health and a super family-sometimes we take that for granted, and don't realize not everyone is so lucky.  Nothing worse then being alone when you're hurting (inside and out), because I have been there.

Several of us in my "friends" group have a mutual friend who really needs us right now.  Won't identify him, but you know of whom I speak.  God's Speed in your recovery from this surgery my brother...But, how many more are out there?

Anyway my hurt is for those suffering alone, or just needing some moral support and spiritual power in recovering.

Sorry if the spelling sucks and/or I'm rambling right now-just trying to get the message across.

Any feedback would be appreciated. DC

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DATE: 06/20/2008 20:04:41 / MOOD: accomplished

On 19 June (2008), I was invited by the Jacksonville (FL) U.S. Army Recruiting Command to conduct a four hour "Motivational Boot Camp" for the Recruiters from four counties.  These are all recent combat veterans who have earned their current positions. The evolution, which kicked off a two day training seminar, started at 0630.

At the conclusion of the Boot Camp session, their Commanding Officer presented me with an offical United States Army Certificate of Appreciation and Command "Challenge Coin..."

I felt proud and honored to be invited to conduct this program.  What was especially fulfilling was to be introduced to these officers and NCOs as a United States Navy veteran who has trained and worked with Special Operations personnel since Vietnam...

Have attempted to upload photos of the day, but having trouble getting them to transfer (????).

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DATE: 10/08/9922 12:13:56 / MOOD: grateful

May all the Fathers presently serving our Country in harm's way safely return home to the arms of their loving children... God Bless You

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DATE: 10/08/3590 12:10:53 / MOOD: ecstatic

To all you young studs out there looking at a military career; take time to learn and hone your skills!  They will reward you for the rest of your life.

I'm sixty-one, and just returned home from a three week trip for the Army National Guard.  I was paid (very well) as a "Contractor" to evaluate and up-date a Close Quarter Combat facility in the U.S. Virgin Islands!

Treated like a VIP!  They "took notes" and made some immediate changes based upon my recommendations.  Further, I'm going back in six weeks to do it again!

It keeps me in the game and motivated.  It's not for everyone folks, but once it's in your blood you'll always want to work with your fellow Operators...

 

 

 

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DATE: 03/22/2008 12:37:55 / MOOD: irritated

I've been an active, paying member of this site for many years and have been most fortunate to meet some great people and make some super new friends.  I support and very much appreciate all that Mark and Tony have put into developing a place where we can meet and share stories, thoughts, needs and skills.

I've advertised in the Classified Section here from the beginning with some super results.  As a personal fitness trainer, fitness author, and Instructor trainer in the military, law enforcement and as a civilian I believe I have a great deal to offer my fellow members.

In many cases members here have requested guidence and advice on fitness needs/goals.  I have NEVER charged a fee for this unless the individual was seeking specific fitness training/nutritional training in an intense personalized program.  In that case (per by ad), we agree on goals, program description, fees and everything else in advance.

In a couple situations I have provided this service pro bono to fellow members who really needed this help but just could not afford to pay me.  I believe in karma (both good & bad) and hope these same people will someday be in a position to help someone else.

Recently however, I have been "ripped off" by two (2) members.  Both were in immediate need of assistance to meet fitness requirements within their professions or not progress and/or qualify for a special unit within their organization.

One was going to be released from their State's Army National Guard after over 12 years of "full-time" Guard employment.  This female was going to be seperated (ETS 01 April '08) for continued failure to meet weight/body fat requirements.  Guess what?  We worked together daily and she was retained & just re-enlisted!!!

In both cases fees were agreed upon (via this site), and I immediately initiated the fitness and nutritional training with payment to follow within a short specified time.  I provided DAILY personalized goal specific training guidence and review, and personalized eating programs to both members.

This went on for weeks with no effort on their parts to keep their end of the agreement...

Anyway, now I've vented. As for everyone else out there, I am always willing to share my education, skills, and experience with you AT NO CHARGE.  Have a Happy Holiday!

Dennis (MS, CFT, PT, FT), Certified; NFPT, NASM, ACSM, ISSA Instructor Mentor / Member; NSCA, NCAA, ESCS

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DATE: 03/11/2008 15:22:00 / MOOD: energetic

Read the "Smoothy" blog and it was a good idea to share this type info.

I kinda invented a super receipe for High Protein Pancakes that I provide my clients. As follows;

Use LOW FAT Pancake Mix.  Check the directions on box for amount of mix required for desired serving size (number of pancakes you want...)

"Half" this amount and replace with vanilla (or chocolet) Protein mix. I add bananna slices and sometimes walnut pieces.

I also use low fat-sugar free syrup or honey. 

HINT:  I usually make a couple extra and put them in fridge.  Then for a high energy pre/post workout snack I add fresh ground peanut butter to one; roll it up and it's great! 

 

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DATE: 02/02/2008 16:12:52 / MOOD: curious

I think they'd be a great team with a lot of talent and honor to offer our Country.  What do you think..?

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DATE: 10/08/5945 12:01:47 / MOOD: curious

I'm really interested on members' positions on the candidates and why.  Especially those presently serving in the military and vets.

VENT Here!

God bless America...

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DATE: 01/19/2008 07:07:51 / MOOD: accomplished

The local Army Recruiter has brought a group of 20 high school DEPers and 6 other recruits to my Boot Camp.  Most will graduate from HS in June and ship. The ones out of school will ship over the next couple months.

Lots of sweat, pain & vomit the first week!

I assisted two of their females in loosing over 20 pounds a piece so they could get in, and both ship at the end of January.  They will recieve $40,000.00 sign-on bonuses.  One is Intell & the other will be a combat medic.

The Navy will join us in February as they only PT their DEPers once a month (!), need to motivate them into more work!!!

I also have three full-time Florida Army National Guard (FANG)Offficers & NCOs who are training with me to prepare for the international military athletic competition in Germany this fall.

Will keep you posted on these fine young Americans and pictures will be posted!

 

 

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