Wounded Warrior heckled at Columbia University 2/21/11

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kb3oqoAU4S0

 

Wow…a Wounded Warrior is heckled during a short speech he gave in support of the reinstatement of the R.O.T.C. (Reserve Officer’s Training Corps) to Columbia University in New York City.  Discrimination.

The Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) is a college-based, officer commissioning program, predominantly in the United States. It is designed as a college elective that focuses on leadership development, problem solving, strategic planning, and professional ethics.   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reserve_Officers’_Training_Corps

According to the ‘history’ page in Columbia’s web site, they did have an R.O.T.C. program from 1916 to 1969.  Today, the Army R.O.T.C. goes to Fordham University and the Air Force to Manhatten College  http://www.columbia.edu/cu/rotc/hist.htm

http://www.columbia.edu/cu/rotc/army.htm

http://www.columbia.edu/cu/rotc/airforce.htm

Columbia’s mission statement:

Columbia University is one of the world’s most important centers of research and at the same time a distinctive and distinguished learning environment for undergraduates and graduate students in many scholarly and professional fields. The University recognizes the importance of its location in New York City and seeks to link its research and teaching to the vast resources of a great metropolis. It seeks to attract a diverse and international faculty and student body, to support research and teaching on global issues, and to create academic relationships with many countries and regions. It expects all areas of the university to advance knowledge and learning at the highest level and to convey the products of its efforts to the world.  http://www.columbia.edu/content/mission-statement.html

 

So how does this vilification, discrimination and osterization exist in direct contrast to the core of the university’s mission statement:  it’s desire ‘to attract a diverse student body….teaching on global issues…expects all areas of the university to advance knowledge and learning at the highest level and convey the products of its efforts to the world.  ?????

This young man stands above the crowd.

dis·crim·i·na·tion

–noun

1.

an act or instance of discriminating.
2.

treatment or consideration of, or making a distinction in favorof or against, a person or thing based on the group, class, orcategory to which that person or thing belongs rather thanon individual merit: racial and religious intolerance anddiscrimination.

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/discrimination


Combat Faith: ‘using the virtues of faith to silence the demons of war’

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RViaBqR6V7A&feature=player_embedded

http://www.woundedsoldierhealingwarrior.com/InterviewonLarryKingLive.htmlAllen B. Clark Jr.

http://www.combatfaith.com/Index.html

 

From Allen 2/17/11:

I was interviewed about my war wounding and healing on CBS Channel 11 Dallas-Ft. Worth Feb. 16, 2011.

The Honorable Allen Clark 469-831-0841
Founder, Combat Faith Ministry, www.combatfaith.com

Author, Wounded Soldier, Healing Warrior
www.woundedsoldierhealingwarrior.com

To listen to Allen’s interview on 2/16/11, click on this link:

http://goo.gl/OXkaO

 

 

February 3rd, 1943 and the steadfast faith of the Four Chaplains

Today, February 3rd 1943 The USS (USAT) Dorchester..an army troop transport ship going through “torpedo alley” was hit and sunk near the coast of Greenland. Four interfaith (Catholic, Protestant and Jewish) Chaplains gave away their life jackets and remained on board the fast sinking ship- locked armed praying together for the men.. of the 900 men aboard the ship, only 230 were rescued from those frozen waters.

A PRAYER FOR CHAPLAINS
By Dick Millspaugh BCC

O Holy One,
When disaster strikes by air, land or sea
Strengthen me.

When shock numbs, stuns, or overcomes me
Hold me.

When the flames of anger threaten me
Calm me.

When retaliation seems my only choice
Speak to me of grace.

When I would be god to save all
Humble me.

Creator of the air, land and sea:
Strengthen me, that I may calm others.
Ground me, that I may be peace for others.
Empower me, that I may act where I am.
Humble me, that I may know my need
Is always, always to live in You.

Amen.
http://www.professionalchaplains.org/index.aspx?id=249#Prayer_for_Chaplains

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEP7FUcIfwA

James Swearingen, 1992 Composed/wrote “The Light Eternal” to commemorate/honor their dedication, service, sacrifice and steadfast faith.

http://www.immortalchaplains.org/Story/story.htm

http://www.fourchaplains.org/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_Chaplains

“God Bless America” ….a daily prayer

http://www.scoutsongs.com/lyrics/godblessamerica.html

God Bless America

Words and music by Irving Berlin
© Copyright 1938, 1939 by Irving Berlin
© Copyright Renewed 1965, 1966 by Irving Berlin
© Copyright Assigned to the Trustees of the God Bless America Fund
International Copyright Secured. All Rights Reserved.
Used by Permission

“While the storm clouds gather far across the sea,
Let us swear allegiance to a land that’s free,
Let us all be grateful for a land so fair,
As we raise our voices in a solemn prayer. ”

God Bless America,
Land that I love.
Stand beside her, and guide her
Thru the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies,
To the oceans, white with foam
God bless America, My home sweet home.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejtBCxhFQ7w

 

Sammy Kershaw – The Snow White Rows of Arlington

There are a lot of perfect reasons
To never fight another war
There are a lot of perfect questions
As to what’s worth fighting for
There are a lot of perfect fools
Who refuse to read the writing on the wall

But the truth is there are people
Who’ve made it crystal clear
That it is their holy mission
To destroy all we hold dear

They are visibly out searching for the fire
To make this towing nation fall

Now we can just sit back and wait
Until they spill more precious blood
Or we can seek these cowards out
And nip their slaughter in the bud

Audios sweet home and family
I’m off to fight a war that must be won
You’ll know why I’m going when you see
The snow white rows of Arlington

Every blade of grass is sacred
Every headstone is a shrine
To somebody who was willing
To put existence on the line

The liberty we take for granted
Was purchased with their patriotic lives

Are their sleeping spirits restless?
Do they listen for the sound?
Of the mustering of armies
To defend their hallowed ground?

Will we rise to the occasion
To ensure their legacy survives?

Through the willows blow soft breezes
They are whispering my name

Asking did they die for nothing?
Aren’t I the keeper of the flame?

Audios sweet home and family
Wave goodbye to your Louisiana son

You will know why I’m leaving when you see
The snow white rows of Arlington

Audios sweet home and family
Wave goodbye to your Louisiana son
And if it be my fate you’ll find me
Proudly sleeping in the snow white,
When you see the snow white rows of Arlington

There are a lot of perfect reasons
To never fight another war
There are a lot of perfect questions

http://www.onlylyrics.com/hits.php?grid=8&id=1047141

Giving Thanks

Suffolk County Purple Heart Trail

FYI,
A long overdue tribute to our Purple Heart recipients. Please enjoy the attached video.

Thomas Ronayne, Director
Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency
H. Lee Dennison Building
100 Veterans Memorial Highway
Hauppauge, NY 11788-0099
631 853 VETS (8387)
631 853 8381
631 853 8390 fax
From: Stanton, Brendan
Sent: Friday, November 12, 2010 2:59 PM
To: Ronayne, Tom
Subject: FW: W/ Video Tribute: Levy Seeks Creation of Suffolk County Purple Heart Trail at County Park

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4TaBT–eWo

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

OFFICE OF THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE

Steve Levy
COUNTY EXECUTIVE

NEWS RELEASEClick Here for Veterans Day Video Tribute

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Dan Aug

November 10, 2010
Phone: 631. 853.4018
Cell: 631. 885.0631
Celebrating Veterans Day
Suffolk Executive Levy Announces Creation of ‘Suffolk County Purple Heart Trail’
First Memorial Dedicated to County Purple Heart Recipients to be Set in Accessible Lakeland County Park; Also Files Resolution for ‘Honor and Remember” Flag

Islandia, NY – Suffolk Executive Steve Levy today announced legislation to establish a Suffolk Veterans Purple Heart Trail at Lakeland County Park — the first County memorial dedicated to Suffolk’s Purple Heart recipients.

Levy was joined by Suffolk County Legislator Tom Cilmi, Islandia Village Mayor and Viet Nam veteran Allan Dorman and other veterans – including Purple Heart recipients, family members and Commander of the New York State Department of the Military Order of the Purple Heart — at the handicapped accessible park.

“The men and women who have given their life for our country, those who have served and survived – all those who have worn the uniform honorably in defense of our nation – are remembered here today,” said Levy.  “We extend today a special recognition to those Suffolk residents who have received the military honor of the Purple Heart and will forever remember them through this Purple Heart Trail.”

Conrad Steers, Commander of the New York State Department of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, stated, “In establishing its ‘Purple Heart Trail’ today Suffolk County has taken a great step in honoring those members of the military who have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal for wounds suffered in combat, and for veterans who have made the supreme sacrifice.”

Chartered by Congress in 1958, The Military Order of the Purple Heart is composed of military men and women who received the Purple Heart Medal for wounds suffered in combat. Although our membership is restricted to the combat wounded, the MOPH supports all veterans and their families with a myriad of nation-wide programs by Chapters and National Service Officers.

Legislator Tom Cilmi, within whose district the park sits, said “It is fitting that we honor our Purple Heart recipients on this day preceding Veteran’s Day.  We are free to walk along peaceful trails such as this, and congregate in parks such as this thanks to the service and sacrifice of our Veterans.”

Islandia Village Mayor Allan Dorman added, “As a veteran, it is encouraging to know that Suffolk County continues to go above and beyond the call of duty in honoring those men and women who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.  The Village of Islandia is humbled to serve as the host village to Suffolk’s Veterans Purple Heart Trail and we encourage all residents to visit it.”

Legislator Steve Stern, Chairman of the Legislature’s Veterans Committee, stated, “Our Veterans and their families make enormous sacrifices to protect our freedom and our way of life.  We owe them not only a debt of gratitude, but our full support in every way.  This trail will provide an accessible and beautiful place for those who have served with valor and dedication to enjoy the natural beauty of Suffolk County with their loved ones.”

Honor and Remember Flag
Levy today also announced the introduction of legislation to designate the “Honor and Remember Flag” as the county of Suffolk’s emblem of the service and sacrifice by those in the United States Armed Forces who have given their lives in the line of duty.

According to Honor and Remember Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) charitable organization, the mission of Honor and Remember is to create, establish and promote a nationally recognized flag that will fly continuously as a visible reminder to all Americans of the lives lost in defense of our national freedoms.

Congress has introduced a bill to endorse the Honor and Remember Flag as a national symbol and the Honor and Remember Flag has also been endorsed by the American Gold Star Mothers, Inc., the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Fleet Reserve Association, the Military Officers Association of America, the Air Force Security Forces Association and the Naval Reserve Association. The flag has been officially adopted by the cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Virginia. The Pennsylvania state legislature is currently considering adopting the flag.

Suffolk County is home to the largest veteran population in New York State, outside of New York City.  Lakeland County Park was chosen to host the first Suffolk County Veterans Purple Heart Trail because of its handicap accessibility which allows all of Suffolk’s veterans the greatest accessibility in visiting.

Click Here for Veterans Day Video Tribute: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R4TaBT–eWo

TO HONOR AND REMEMBER: Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy joins with purple heart recipients and gold star family members in announcing legislation to name the greenbelt trail at Lakeland County Park the “Suffolk County Purple Heart Trail,” and adopt the “Honor and Remember” flag as the county emblem of the service and sacrifice by those in the United States Armed Forces who have given their lives in the line of duty. Pictured (l-r) Tim Shearer, Mayor Allan Dorman, Suffolk Legislator Tom Cilmi, NYS Military Order of the Purple Heart Commander Conrad Steers, Dawn Esposito, Theirey Wilwerth, Suffolk Executive Steve Levy, Veterans Services Director Tom Ronayne, Michelle McNaughton, Ron Romaszka, Joann Lyles, and Elaine Wilwerth.

Mark L. Smith, Deputy Director of Communications
Office of Suffolk County Executive
PH: 631-853-8342/ CELL: 631-445-7169
E-Mail: [email protected]

9-11-01….. 9-11-10..’have you forgotten?’

“HAVE YOU FORGOTTEN?”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqCFq5sPxNo&feature=fvw

I hear people saying we don’t need this war
I say there’s some things worth fighting for
What about our freedom and this piece of ground?
We didn’t get to keep ‘em by backing down
They say we don’t realize the mess we’re getting in
Before you start preaching
Let me ask you this my friend
Have you forgotten how it felt that day
To see your homeland under fire
And her people blown away?
Have you forgotten when those towers fell?
We had neighbors still inside
Going through a living hell
And you say we shouldn’t worry ’bout Bin Laden
Have you forgotten?

They took all the footage off my T.V.
Said it’s too disturbing for you and me
It’ll just breed anger that’s what the experts say
If it was up to me I’d show it every day
Some say this country’s just out looking for a fight
After 9/11 man I’d have to say that’s right

I’ve been there with the soldiers
Who’ve gone away to war
And you can bet they remember
Just what they’re fighting for

Have you forgotten all the people killed?
Some went down like heroes in that Pennsylvania field
Have you forgotten about our Pentagon?
All the loved ones that we lost
And those left to carry on
Don’t you tell me not to worry about Bin Laden
Have you forgotten?

Darryl Worley/Wynn Varble, 2003

CLICK ON THIS LINK TO READ/SIGN LETTER TO PRESIDENT OBAMA ON  HIS USING CIVILIAN COURT SYSTEM IN NYC TO PROSECUTE 9/11 CONSPIRATORS:

http://www.thebravest.com/ObamaLetter110909.htm

“PROJECT 2996″ http://project2996.wordpress.com/ – remember the victims of 9/11 – the people who went to work and did not come home. http://www.legacy.com/Sept11/Home.aspx

CARL FLICKINGER:

Thoughtful husband and father, golf enthusiast

Carl Flickinger considered his work hours at Cantor Fitzgerald to be one of the job’s biggest benefits. Though he started at 7 a.m., he was home by 6:30 p.m. with his family in Congers in Rockland County.

Mr. Flickinger, 38, slid comfortably into domestic routines. Every Saturday, he shopped for groceries before taking his 11-year-old twin sons to the mall for new sneakers or jeans. In the evening, he checked his sons’ homework and read to his 5-year-old daughter. On and off the job, he drove himself. He would not just play an easy 18 holes of golf; he took lessons and practiced on the driving range.

Mr. Flickinger was a gadget guy, said his wife, Kathy, and he liked to buy the latest nifty devices as gifts for friends.

Every morning before his commute, he bought coffee at the Dairy Mart and left it for his wife. And at 11 a.m., he always called home. “Just to touch base,” she said. “Just to tell me how his morning was going.”  http://inmemoriamonline.net/Profiles/Folders/F_Folder/Flickinger_Carl.html

Links:

Legacy Guest Book:    http://www.legacy.com/gb2/default.aspx?bookid=96911

http://bobmcdonald.ba.ttu.edu/Home%20Page/world_trade_center_page.htm

http://terroristattack.com/messages.php?id=942

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/memorial/people/1983.html

http://www.9-11heroes.us/v/Carl_Flickinger.php

http://remember911.albertarose.org/wtc9.htm

You have never met me…..

I am the stranger everywhere…

Sitting next to you on the subway…..

Selling newspapers on the street…

Begging for change on the corner…

Gazing out of a corporate building…

Playing in the park…

Driving your taxi…

Babysitting your kids…

Creating the laws…

But always, always

Loving you unconditionally.

You don’t need to know me

To know that you are loved.

All the pain you feel

You are never truly alone.

My prayers are with you

Your heart will heal

The sun will shine

and your loved ones

will reach

Their places with God.

Love, always,

Kelly Nicole”

(above poem/letter-from book:  “Do not be sad.  A Chronicle of Healing. Children’s letters and artwork sent after 9/11 from across America to Engine 24 Ladder 5 FDNY” ISBN#:  0-941807-80-0)

Elena Ledesma

“A Family’s ‘Source of Light’

Elena Ledesma was the heart and soul of her extended family. On camping trips, she was the first to pitch the tents. She was the one who administered insulin to her 66-year- old diabetic mother and took her to the doctor. She was raising two daughters and working full time.

Ms. Ledesma, who was 37, worked at the World Trade Center as a maintenance coordinator at Marsh & McLennan. She was responsible for maintenance on Floors 93 to 99. The divorced mother of a 12-year-old and a 17-year-old, she lived in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Her mother, aunts and cousins all lived in the same building.

“My sister was a giving person,” said Nelson Hernandez, her older brother. “She was always the one we turned to for anything. I had a lot of dreams. We were going to buy a house together for our mother.”

Belkis Mercedes, a friend, said she believed that many family members still expected Ms. Ledesma to reappear. “She was their source of light,” Ms. Mercedes said. ”

(Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on October 6, 2001.) http://www.nytimes.com/2001/10/07/national/portraits/POGF-158-8LEDESMA.html

http://www.legacy.com/Sept11/Story.aspx?PersonID=113377

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/memorial/people/4149.html

http://memorial.mmc.com/pgBio.asp?ID=155

http://www.9-11heroes.us/v/Elena_Ledesma.php

Karleton D.B. Fyfe

Karleton Fyfe’s mother had to be bedridden for the six months before he was born; he seemed to be in a hurry to get into the world.

There was so much to be excited about. Take the birth of his own son. He and his wife made it a group project. They sent family and close friends a video titled “It’s a. . . .” showing them going for the sonogram and at the end opening an envelope in which the doctor had written “boy.” When Jackson turned 1, they asked the same group to write something and seal it for him to open when he turned 18.

Then, because Mr. Fyfe heard that the terrible 2’s were caused by frustration at not being able to communicate, he taught his son sign language. “He was really living it,” said Tristin Laughter a longtime friend of the couple.

Mr. Fyfe, 31, really lived everything, applying the same boyishness and determination whether he was mastering Steve Martin routines or the curveball as a kid, or tackling projects as a senior analyst at John Hancock — the job for which he was traveling on American Airlines Flight 11.
Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on December 31, 2001.

Karleton Fyfe’s mother called his Brookline, Mass., home on Tuesday morning. She had seen the news of burning buildings and wanted to make sure her only son was not inside his 56th floor office in Boston.

He wasn’t, Fyfe’s wife, Haven, assured her mother-in-law. He was on an airplane.

Fyfe, a 31-year-old John Hancock employee and father of 1-year-old Jackson, was aboard American Airlines 11. The trip was for business.

Kansas City Star columnist Bill Tammeus had written almost all of his column–about the bombing–before he learned that Fyfe, his nephew, was a victim. “He’s the kind of kid that if there was anything that could have been done on that plane to help, he would have done it,” said Tammeus, who grew up in Woodstock.

Profile courtesy of THE CHICAGO TRIBUNE.   http://www.legacy.com/Sept11/Story.aspx?PersonID=91795

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/memorial/people/1380.html

American Airlines, Flight 11 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Airlines_Flight_11

http://michellemalkin.com/2008/09/11/never-forget-american-airlines-flight-11-2/

http://terroristattack.com/messages.php?id=989

http://www.9-11heroes.us/v/Karleton_DB_Fyfe.php

http://www.meme-pops.com/wtc/AAF11.htm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WrZeocjLFOI&feature=related

“FREE”

and She called…
Blacks, Whites…wait
African Americans and Caucasians, Asians, excuse me.
Vietnamese, Philippines, Koreans and Jamaicans or
Haitians, waitin’, Hispanics, y’all.

Please be patient
Mexican, Puerto Ricans, Venezuelan, Cuban, v Dominican, Panamanian, Democrats
I beg your pardon, you partied with the late, great Reagan?
Republican, Independent, Christian, Catholic,
Methodist, Baptist, 7th Day Adventist, 5 Percenters,
Hindu, Sunni Muslim, Brothers and Sisters who never seen the New York city
skyline when the twin towers still existed.
But still She called.

From the bowels of Ground Zero she sent this 911 distress signal.
Because She was in desperate need of a hero,
and didn’t have time to decipher what to call ‘em,
so she called ‘em all Her children.
The children of the stars and bars who needed to know nothing more than the fact that she called.
The fact that someone attempted to harm us
this daughter who covered us all with her loving arms.
And now these arms are sprawled across New York City streets.
A smoke filled lung, a silt covered faced,
and a solitary tear poured out of her cheek.
Her singed garments carpets Pennsylvania Avenue and the Pentagon was under her feet.
As she began to talk, she began to cough up small particles of debris
and said, “I am America, and I’m calling on the land of the free.”
So they answered.

All personal differences set to the side
because right now there was no time to decide which state building the Confederate flag should fly over,
and which trimester the embryo is considered alive,
or on our monetary units, and which God we should confide.
You see, someone attempted to choke the voice
of the one who gave us the right for choice,
and now she was callin’.
And somebody had to answer.
Who was going to answer?

So they did.
Stern faces and chiseled chins.
Devoted women and disciplined men,
who rose from the ashes like a Phoenix
and said “don’t worry, we’ll stand in your defense.”
They tightened up their bootlaces
and said goodbye to loved ones, family and friends.
They tried to bombard them with the “hold on”, “wait-a-minute’s”, and “what-ifs”.
And “Daddy, where you goin’?”.
And, “Mommy, why you leavin’?”.
And they merely kissed them on their foreheads and said “Don’t worry, I have my reasons.
You see, to this country I pledged my allegiance
to defend it against all enemies foreign and domestic.
So as long as I’m breathin’, I’ll run though hell-fire,
meet the enemy on the front lines,
look him directly in his face,
stare directly in his eyes and scream,
“I AM AMERICA! WE WILL NOT BE TERRORIZED!
WE WILL NOT BE TERRORIZED!
I REFUSE TO BE AFRAID!
I’LL FIGHT YOU ANY COUNTRY, ANY CONTINENT, ANY TERRAIN.
I’LL FIGHT TO MY LAST BREATH!”

And if by chance death is my fate,
pin my medals upon my chest,
and throw Old Glory on my grave.
But, don’t y’all cry for me.
You see, my Father’s prepared a place.
I’ll be a part of his Holy army standing a watch at the Pearly Gates.
Because freedom was never free.
POW’s, and fallen soldiers
all paid the ultimate sacrifice
along side veterans who put themselves in harms way.
Risking their lives and limbs just to hold up democracy’s weight,
but still standing on them broken appendages anytime the National Anthem was played.
You see, these were the brave warriors that gave me the right
to say that I’m Black. Or white.

Or

African American or Caucasian,
I’m Asian, excuse me.
I’m Vietnamese, Philippine, Korean, or Jamaican.
I’m Haitian, Hispanic

Y’all, Please be patient.
I’m Mexican, Puerto Rican, Venezuelan, Cuban,
Dominican, Panamanian, Democrat
I beg your pardon, you see I partied with the late, great Reagan.
I’m Republican, Independent, Christian, Catholic,
Methodist, Baptist, 7th Day Adventist, 5 Percenters,
Hindu, Sunni Muslim,

Brothers and Sisters We’re just Americans.
So with that I say
“Thank You” to the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines,
for preserving my rights
to live and die for this life
and paying the ultimate price for me to be…FREE!

http://www.nyc.gov/html/fdny/media/tribute/tribute.html

This link will take the reader to “Ground Zero” photographs: http://www.nyc.gov/html/fdny/html/wtc_other/ground_zero/1005_57.shtml

PROJECT REBIRTH:  http://www.projectrebirth.org/

This link will take the reader to the 2006 report: “Addressing the health impacts of 9/11/01http://www.nyc.gov/html/om/pdf/911_health_impacts_report.pdf

American Experience”–”The Center of the World” is a series of t.v. shows documenting the World Trade Center from vision to reality to it’s attack on 9/11/01. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/newyork/sfeature/sf_int_pop_04_01_tr_qry.html

Here is a link to a site that contains pictures and news articles on: “September 11, 2001-A Day the World Changed.http://www.september11news.com/

FDNY Memorial and pictures of Ground Zero for 9/11/01 http://www.nyc.gov/html/fdny/media/tribute/tribute.html

http://www.cowboylyrics.com/lyrics/daniels-charlie/the-last-fallen-hero-10974.html

“The Last Fallen Hero”

Charlie Daniels album:  Freedom and Justice for All

Oh, the cowards came by morning and attacked without a warning
Leaving flames and death and chaos in our streets
In the middle of this fiery hell brave heroes fell

In the skies of Pennsylvania on a plane bound for destruction
With the devil and his angels at the wheel
They never reached their target on the ground
Brave heroes brought it down

Chorus:
This is a righteous cause so without doubt or pause
I will do what my country asks of me
Make any sacrifice
We’ll pay whatever price
So the children of tomorrow can be free
Lead on red, white and blue
And we will follow you until we win the final victory
God help us do our best we will not slack or rest
Till the last fallen hero rests in peace

Now the winds of war are blowing and there’s no way of knowing
Where this bloody path we’re traveling will lead
We must follow till the end
Or face it all again

And make no mistake about it, write it, preach it, talk it, shout it
Across the mountains and the deserts and the seas
The blood of innocence and shame
Will not be shed in vain

Chorus

God help us do our best we will not slack nor rest
Till the last fallen hero rests in peace

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CY00LmtUlqQ

Budweiser tribute to NYC/9/11 commercial that aired once: youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqLajmXJH5k

Here is a youtube video of of another artist’s gift /tribute to those who gave all and those who give much every day: youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZFkZiwMLZ4

http://www.michaelisrael.com/

FIRE FIGHTER’S PRAYER

When I’m called to duty God wherever flames may rage
grant me the strength to save a life whatever be its age

Help me to embrace a little child before it is too late
or save an older person from the horror of that fate

Enable me to be alert to hear the weakest shout
and quickly and efficiently put the fire out

I want to fill my calling Lord and give the best in me
to guard my every neighbor and protect his property

And if according to your will I am to lose my life
God bless with your protecting hand my children and my wife

Racicot’s ice sculpture: “From Fire to Ice

“Always remember, Never Forget the sacrifice of 346 FDNY Brothers”:

Kevin Smith World Trade Center

Born to Serve
“Firefighter Kevin Smith spent almost 20 years preparing for Sept. 11. When he called his wife, Jerri, that morning, his voice trembled with excitement, not fear.

“He was saying, `All my work during all those years and now here it is,’ ” Mrs. Smith said.

In the early 1980’s, Firefighter Smith, 47, became a charter member of the Fire Department’s hazardous materials unit. Then, after the first trade center bombing, in 1993, he was detailed to the mayor’s Office of Emergency Management.

He took on the most dangerous aspect of a most dangerous occupation because that was the kind of thing he had always done. “He just had this desire to serve,” said his sister Catherine. “And he loved being in a uniform.” He was a Boy Scout. Then a marine. He joined the volunteer fire department in Mastic, on Long Island, where he lived, and there met Mrs. Smith, an ambulance volunteer.

When they married, both brought children, eight in all, from earlier marriages. Each one inherited the same steely notion of service. One now is a sailor. One a marine. Two daughters are taking the police exam. And one son, Brian, who was a Fire Department emergency medical service officer on 9/11, was there, and survived, when the towers fell on his father.

“Sometimes, in my own self-pity, I sit and say, `How much can one family give?’ “Mrs. Smith said. She said she had been tempted to tell the world to leave them alone. But then she thinks of Firefighter Smith, so quietly devoted to family and work. “And there comes the pride,” she said, “of knowing we are all still following him.”

(Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on March 8, 2003.)”

http://www.legacy.com/Sept11/Story.aspx?PersonID=147530

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/memorial/people/2381.html

http://www.sconfire.com/FDNY-Memorial.htm

http://nyfd.com/9_11_wtc.html

http://www.9-11-01remembertheheroes.com/photo_page_6.htm

http://books.google.com/books?id=ec-BbEYofIsC&pg=PA567&lpg=PA567&dq=kevin+smith,+fdny,+9/11/01&source=bl&ots=9-qhTwSH5g&sig=Vt84w3jIYfgfvbn0kszW_PEAh34&hl=en&ei=lnKoSue_LNHZlAfD5vnoBg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1#v=onepage&q=&f=false

http://www.sconfire.com/FDNY-Memorial.htm

9-11 NEVER FORGET MEMORIAL:  “BLOOD OF HEROEShttp://www.fdnylodd.com/9-11-Never-Forget/Memorials/Blood-Of-Heroes.html

“Care and compensation in short supply for ailing and troubled 9/11 workers” http://forum.prisonplanet.com/index.php?topic=5665.0

History Channel 9-11-01 “One day changes everything”  http://www.history.com/topics/9-11-attacks

http://www.post-gazette.com/headlines/20010916phonecallnat3p3.asp

Todd Beamer dad to 2 young sons then 3 and 1-years-old, on his last call out from Flight 93 asked the operator to call his family, pray with him and they recited the 23rd psalm together, before Todd and others on the plane counter attacked the hijackers.

The LORD Is My Shepherd

23The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green [1] pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest [2] my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

http://www.toddbeamer.org/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Todd_Beamer

http://www.amazon.com/Lets-Roll-Ordinary-Extraordinary-Courage/dp/0842373195

September 11th, an American flag should be displayed outside every home (everyday), apartment, office, and store in the United States. Every individual should make it their duty to display an American flag on this anniversary of our country’s worst tragedy.

We do this in honor of those who lost their lives on 9/11, their families, friends and loved ones who continue to endure the pain, and those who today are fighting at home and abroad to preserve our cherished freedoms.

In the days, weeks and months following 9/11, our country was bathed in American flags as citizens mourned the incredible losses and stood shoulder-to-shoulder against terrorism. Sadly, those flags have all but disappeared. Our patriotism pulled us through some tough times and it shouldn’t take another attack to galvanize us in solidarity. Our American flag is the fabric of our country and together we can prevail over terrorism of all kinds. Take a moment to think back to how you felt on 9/11 and let those sentiments guide you.

LIGHTS ON…..9/11

Please join us on 9/11 all across this great land we love and call the United States of America.

September 11 everyone in the USA who will be driving a motor vehicle is asked to drive with their headlights on during daylight hours.

Though no explanation is needed as to why we are commemorating September 11, we hope more importantly to pay respect to the victims of that day, show our nation’s solidarity and show support for our men and women of the Armed Forces.

USS NewYork LPD – 21

http://www.ussnewyork.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USS_New_York_(LPD-21)

http://www.ussnewyork.com/ussny_history.html

USS New York
It was built with 24 tons of scrap steel from the
World Trade Center .

It is the fifth in a new class of warship –
designed for missions that include special
operations against terrorists. It will carry a
crew of 360 sailors and 700 combat-ready Marines
to be delivered ashore by helicopters and
assault craft.

Steel  from the World Trade Center was melted
down in a foundry in Amite , LA  to
cast the ship’s bow section. When it was poured
into the molds on Sept 9, 2003, ‘those big rough
steelworkers treated it with total reverence,’
recalled Navy Capt. Kevin Wensing, who was there.

‘It was a spiritual moment for everybody there.’

Junior Chavers, foundry operations manager, said that
when the trade center steel first arrived, he
touched it with his hand and the ‘hair on my
neck stood up.’ ‘It had a big meaning to it for
all of us,’ he said. ‘They knocked us down. They
can’t keep us down. We’re going to be
back.’

The ship’s motto?

‘Never Forget’

Please keep this going so everyone can see what we are made
of in this country!

“Now I lay me down to sleep…one less terrorist this world does keep…with all my heart I give my thanks…to those in uniform regardless of ranks…you serve our country and serve it well…with humble hearts your stories tell…so as I rest my weary eyes…while freedom rings our flag still flies…you give your all, do what you must…with God we live and God we trust….Amen”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jmta7GwXCpo

“Peace will come when ‘they’ love their children more than they hate us.”  Golda Meir

Congress will squeeze/take $20 billion dollars from our wounded Veterans

Wounded Warriors Face New Tax This Independence Day

From John Kartch and Ryan Ellis on Friday, July 2, 2010 12:51 PM
As the nation prepares to celebrate Independence Day with parades and barbecues, America’s veterans face a new tax on prosthetic limbs and other vital medical devices.
The health care overhaul passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama earlier this year contains a new tax on medical devices such as prosthetic limbs, pacemakers, and wheelchairs.  This tax, which its proponents claim will raise $20 billion over the next ten years, contains no exemption for the nation’s 22 million veterans.  In fact, Senate Democrats specifically refused to exempt veterans from the tax.
On March 24 2010, Senate Democrats rejected an amendment offered by Senator Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) to the healthcare bill.  This amendment (SA 3644) would have prevented the medical device tax from hitting veterans covered by the Veterans Healthcare Program or TRICARE for Life.  This amendment was rejected by a vote of 44-54. All but five Democrat senators voted in favor of retaining the tax for veterans.
The medical device tax was one of over twenty new or higher taxes in President Barack Obama’s healthcare overhaul.  This permanent new tax is being collected now.
“On March 24, Senate Democrats had the opportunity to exempt our veterans from Obamacare’s new tax on medical devices such as prosthetic limbs.  But 54 Democrats voted against the measure.  They chose to side with the tax-and-spend crowd in Washington over our wounded warriors,”said Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform.  “This is one of the many reasons Harry Reid and the Democrats did not want Americans to read the 2,500 page health care bill before it was passed.”
In addition to those who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, the Department of Veterans Affairs reports the following number of veterans from America’s wars:
World War II:             2,079,000
Korean War:              2,507,000
Vietnam War:            7,569,000
Desert Shield/Storm:   2,254,000
The following senators voted for the tax:
Daniel Akaka (D-HI)
Max Baucus (D-MT)
Evan Bayh (D-IN)
Mark Begich (D-AK)
Michael Bennet (D-CO)
Jeff Bingaman (D-NM)
Barbara Boxer (D-CA)
Sherrod Brown (D-OH)
Roland Burris (D-IL)
Maria Cantwell (D-WA)
Ben Cardin (D-MD)
Tom Carper (D-DE)
Bob Casey (D-PA)
Kent Conrad (D-ND)
Chris Dodd (D-CT)
Byron Dorgan (D-ND)
Richard Durbin (D-IL)
Russ Feingold (D-WI)
Diane Feinstein (D-CA)
Al Franken (D-MN)
Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY)
Tom Harkin (D-IA)
Daniel Inouye (D-HI)
Tim Johnson (D-SD)
Edward Kaufman (D-DE)
John Kerry (D-MA)
Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)
Herb Kohl (D-WI)
Mary Landrieu (D-LA)
Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ)
Pat Leahy (D-VT)
Carl Levin (D-MI)
Joe Lieberman (ID-CT)
Blanche Lincoln (D-AR)
Claire McCaskill (D-MO)
Bob Menendez (D-NJ)
Jeff Merkley (D-OR)
Barbara Mikulski (D-MD)
Patty Murray (D-WA)
Bill Nelson (D-FL)
Mark Pryor (D-AR)
Jack Reed (D-RI)
Harry Reid (D-NV)
Jay Rockefeller (D-WV)
Bernie Sanders (I-VT)
Chuck Schumer (D-NY)
Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)
Arlen Specter (D-PA)
Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)
Mark Udall (D-CO)
Tom Udall (D-NM)
Mark Warner (D-VA)
Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI)
Ron Wyden (D-OR)

“I fought for you”

May you always be overwhelmed by the Grace of God rather than by the cares of life.

Thanks Michelle =)

“I have a maker, He knows my name” – Tommy Walker

Thanks Faith for singing that to Grandma.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXsiWoyjw60

VERSE 1:
D Em7 Em E   G
I have a Maker
D  Dsus D D2 A  Asus
He formed my heart
D   Em7 Em  E    Esus  G
Before even time began
   D        A      D  Dsus
My life was in his hands

CHORUS:
G  D        A  Asus  A
He knows my name
G  D        A     D
He knows my every thought
G  D         A         D
He sees each tear that falls
    G     D   A        D
and He hears me when I call

VERSE 2:
D Em7 Em E   G
I have a Father
D  Dsu   D  D2  A  Asus
He calls me His own
D     Em7   Em  E G
He'll never leave me
   D      A       D  Dsus
No matter where I go
©1996 Doulos Publishing
Words and Music by Tommy Walker

http://www.higherpraise.com/lyrics1/HeKnowsMyNameIHaveAMaker.htm

“WE WEREN’T BORN TO FOLLOW”

This one goes out to the man who mines for miracles
This one goes out to the ones in need
This one goes out to the sinner and the cynical
This ain’t about no apology

This road was paved by the hopeless and the hungry
This road was paved by the winds of change
Walking beside the guilty and the innocent
How will you raise your hand when they call your name?

Yeah, yeah, yeah

We weren’t born to follow
Come on and get up off your knees
When life is a bitter pill to swallow
You gotta hold on to what you believe

Believe that the sun will shine tomorrow
And that your saints and sinners bleed
We weren’t born to follow
You gotta stand up for what you believe

Let me hear you say yeah, yeah, yeah, oh yeah

This one’s about anyone who does it differently
This one’s about the one who cusses and spits
This ain’t about our livin’ in a fantasy
This ain’t about givin’ up or givin’ in

Yeah, yeah, yeah

We weren’t born to follow
Come on and get up off your knees
When life is a bitter pill to swallow
You gotta hold on to what you believe

Believe that the sun will shine tomorrow
And that your saints and sinners bleed
We weren’t born to follow
You gotta stand up for what you believe

Let me hear you say yeah, yeah, yeah, oh yeah
Let me hear you say yeah, yeah, yeah, oh yeah

We weren’t born to follow
Come on and get up off your knees
When life is a bitter pill to swallow
You gotta hold on to what you believe

Believe that the sun will shine tomorrow
And that your saints and sinners bleed
We weren’t born to follow
You gotta stand up for what you believe

Let me hear you say yeah, yeah, yeah, oh yeah
Let me hear you say yeah, yeah, yeah, oh yeah

We weren’t born to follow, oh yeah
(Yeah, yeah, yeah, oh yeah)
We weren’t born to follow, oh yeah
(Yeah, yeah, yeah, oh yeah)

© AGGRESSIVE MUSIC; BON JOVI PUBLISHING; SONY/ATV TUNES LLC; UNIVERSAL-POLYGRAM INT’L PUB INC;

http://www.elyrics.net/read/b/bon-jovi-lyrics/we-weren_t-born-to-follow-lyrics.html

Posted in family support, Homeless, IAVA, Poems, Post Tramatic Stress, support the troops, Uncategorized, Video, wounded warrior. Comments Off on May you always be overwhelmed by the Grace of God rather than by the cares of life.
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