Helping Your Friends

Sometimes a phone call, a text message-can change and help your friends.  

Did you know that 22 veterans kill themselves each day?  I saw this article, and didn't really think much of it.  Until yesterday.  If you ever have a friend, shipmate, family member, etc, call this number: 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1.  

You just might save someone's life.  Yesterday was a tough day for me, but it ended well.   

Memorial Day

This is one of America's most solemn holidays.  Not just a day off.  Just a day to unwind, but also a day to remember those that gave all. 

I have lost some Sailors and Marines.  Some to the war, some to training, some to suicide, some to cancer...the list goes on.  Whenever I start to feel sorry for myself, or just get down, I think of them.  Think of the sacrifices they made.  Remember them.

This Memorial Day is especially solemn, as we remember a dear friend who left this earth far too soon.  I hope that when I return to Chicago, I can run the Soldier Field 10 miler each year in his honor.

If you know of anyone who is interested in donating to his children's college fund, the link is here: http://www.youcaring.com/tuition-fundraiser/captain-reid-nannen-memorial-children-s-fund/146125

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This is Bigger than Miley Cyrus and the VMAs..

So with all the hubbub in the media about Miley Cyrus and the VMAs, a lot of people missed this news story yesterday.  I just hope you can appreciate this story, and the sacrifice this man made for our country.

One thing I loved doing while living in Chicago was attend the Medal of Honor talks at the Pritzker Library.  If you are in the Windy City, I highly suggest you attend a talk here.  I have gone to a few, and each one was amazing in its own way!  If you can't make it to a talk, they show their talks on PBS!

Veterans Day

Today was Veterans.  A day like any other day out at sea.  Wake up, go stand watch, rinse, repeat.

Today was a little different.  I spent time reflecting on life, and how much I am looking forward to going home next year.  I  have learned so much the past 5 months, and continue to learn and appreciate the American way of life.

God Bless America, and thank a Veteran today!

Veterans Day

Veterans Day is a day near to my heart.  A day I remember those who have gone before me, and who are still with me, serving every day.

My family is a large military family, and I am proud of that heritage.  I am proud to be in the Navy, and continue the mission for the Global Force for Good.  As cheesy as that sounds, people would be amazed if they heard the stories of what Sailors do each and every day.  Humanitarian missions, anti-piracy operations, you name it. 

How you can make a difference for a Vet

Wounded Warrior Project

Faces of our Fallen

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This Veterans day, remember why you have a day off of work.  Remember who those men and women are who fight for freedom and democracy to reign in this great country of ours.