The Mountain Ranger Run will be going on in the morning on the same day as Open House this year on the 5th of May. The Open House will end with a concert on the airfield (weather permitting) at about 1800.

...USMRA Meeting for January 2012...

...19 present for a good night in warm January...

...Willard Langdon, Chaplain, delivered another fine prayer to get things going...for service, leadership, blessings and being a "lighthouse in the community"...Steve thought there was a longer pause in forgiveness so we could think about it...

...Reading of the Minutes...Steve, "that's all the time we have for tonight", after the long meeting's minutes were read...Dan gave the Treasurer's report showing that the donations are declining as the years have gone by, "a very weak year for us"...we still got some but the gold diggers are not aware of our thrift...

...Old Business...Cemetary and CCO...JB spoke on updates for the Monument that is up down at Pine Valley...entire monument cost $23 less than the money we had to pay for it...another memorial at Tullahoma has been erected...3rd one to be here on Camp somewhere...

...Sonny reminded everyone that you're supposed to thank the Treasurer for his service and report so Steve asked for a round of applause and Bob Suchke offered a few big hands...

...a vine covered rock for a memorial is somewhere that Bob knows of but it will remain until we have the place to put it...maybe at the "long noted but not here yet fire pit" that's planned for behind the Club...

...Eagle Projects and Cadets are willing to help out at the Cemetary...

...Roy Close was asked by Steve to report on the Cemetary...Roy spoke of organizations that pay for cemetary improvements and has a name of a man who can detect with sonar the graves that are present...Roy gave different ideas for the amount of burials that can take place with varying ideas for maximizing space with cremations...

...after rehashing and explaining the information he's obtained about the general idea to the specifics of who can help with our learning process and facilitate this property use...more of past meetings' input...

...Roy previewed what and who can become involved for resources in the generation of money with cemetaries for preservation and cremations; Roy Close and Mark Jordan have offered to be Trustees with the idea of having one more who is interested in project...

...Kelso Horne, County Attorney, attending tonight with his experience and insight into the project...spoke of his father being buried in Normandy with the church service is St. Mere Eglise, welcomed by the French people...the Secretary of State office deals with burials and he can help us as we go along to follow the rules...as an LLC possibly after a mission statement with tax exemption...is the group prepared for family input into how "grandpa wanted it"...our way, their way, who's way...graves are getting more and more expensive everyday with Dahlonega's cost tripling...

...Ed Gross offered a "go/no-go" about either going forward or just drop the idea for involvement in this endeavor...asked for a second and no one seconded to stop talking about this...

...Ed thinks we're not there to make a decision and Roy said it's time to make a vote on either doing it or not...Ed, "if there's no second, I'll shut up"...no second..."that's fine, let's move forward"...Roy is ready to have the vote on accepting it or not..."the family needs closure", Doug Perry..."what is the impact on this organization?"...we need to restructure as a 501c tax exempt organization...Steve, "we need to accept or not accept the propery" but we still need to change the status of our organization....Ed, saying he's "shut up if no one else is interested", still wants to have an idea to either go ahead or not, apparently wondering if any others had heard his motion to stop the talk about this whole thing...Bob Suchke wants to restructure the question in being those interested in to follow up on taking the cemetary or not...Ed is concerned on liability...falling on gravestone in middle of night...if you own it, you're responsible...

...Kelso again explained more details of the cost involved...

...Ed then proposed the idea of what's "free"...as in the burial process...Ed reemphasized that he wanted to get to deciding on whether to continue...(reminding me of Pete's "one more thing") earlier in the year...

...Roy made a motion to either accept the property or not...got it seconded by Doug Perry...all in favor of accepting the property...Seven for...all those against...Four against...some didn't vote...besides Steve, who can't vote...

...Ed wants "free" to mean a spot, but how to get under is the cost of the person's family...Roy explained that there's a land use plan of how to use the area...Roy explained his presentation already showed the area that can be developed and Ed spoke of the SOP on burying Rangers...Bob, "we're not at that stage yet"...

...Steve spoke of all these great minds present for having passed the Ranger Course..."We got a warning order; now we need an op order"...we let the trustees develop the plan...the recommendation was made to letting Roy be turned loose on this as he's way ahead of all of us on the thinking of how and what and who and when and where about all this...he has spent time with all parties involved to find the many answers to the many questions being asked now...Kelso gave a general plan as to how to proceed, rehashing some more of the areas needing attention as we proceed...

...we appreciate Kelso and Steve asks him to be our legal advice pro bono as we're really poor and we really need someone like Kelso to be available for insight and direction...Kelso agrees...

...only two family members have requested to be buried there, "although there's some 47th cousin who wants to be buried, but the family doesn't own the plot anymore"...a trustee issue that Roy has already considered...$10 for Methodist lawyers getting the deed to us...$25 filing fee in Lumpkin County...Roy says he's using the model of what the churches have done with 3 trustees...the number is arbitrary...Ed thinks 3 would be perfect...

...Roy says he and his wife are interested in buying plots and there's others he know who are interested, "not naming names yet"..."we could bury them standing up, get lots of room"...Steve still wants to be cremated and made into a douche...

...motion to close...Sonny...seconded by Dan...Bob opposes...50 minutes of meeting; 3 minutes of prayer...

...we're in the cemetary business...

...respectfully submitted...

...Mark, S1...

I talked to Steve Beltran in California today and he heard Steve Hawk had a stroke. Does anyone know anything about this. Fact or Fiction?

...Veteran Job Opportunity

...Forest Supervisor’s Office, Gainesville, GA Customer Service Representative GS-0303-5 ($32,722 - $42,535)

...for details... http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/conf/about-forest/jobs/?cid=STELPRDB5344587&width=full Mark

Taking leave over Christmas to hunt along the TVD from 26-28 Dec with buddies and old Rangers. We will have a camp with lots of firewood and coffee near Locust Gap for anyone who might be out for the hunt or just hanging out by the fire. The camp will have an American flag for ease of recognition hanging out front in case we are out hunting when you stop by. Make yourself at home and warm up the coffee, I will be back soon enough.Everyone is welcome, might even have some fresh meat......Merry Christmas, Tom

...Cemetary Update...

...I was met by Abby, the killer watchdog we were warned about and pictured in Roy's Report, as such said beast...I sat on the natural, stackstone wall and after licking me in the face a few times, Abby laid down against my leg for a tummy scratch, legs all up in the air...afterwards she ambles on back up to Kelly Smith's house figuring I was dead enough to be a warning to any others so foolish...

...Roy Close showed up and we enjoyed over an hour of discussing the project, clarifying what needs to be done next, other than a vote in January's Meeting...

...leaving the report, Kelly's plat and all other material that Roy had assembled for this presentation, I left as Roy brought a copy to Kelly's house...

...RLTW...never leaving a Ranger behind...

...Mark

...Frag Order...

...Cemetary Rendezvous tomorrow at 1400 for all those interested. I'm giving Kelly Smith a copy of Roy Close's fine report that was presented earlier at this month's meeting.

...A good time to meet all the players and someone get the county lawyer, Kelso Horne, to come look at some guns then too...

...August Lane, on the left after Roy's pond on the right curve heading towards CFM, .2 miles from the S curve...paved...

...2 pm for civilized folks..

...RLTW...to death and beyond...

...Mark, keeper of the report...

...Mike and Judy Flack's labor of love, the pictures of our annual Critter Cookout/Open House/Fish Fry/Fallen Ranger, are the best news anyone could hope for this cold winter season...and especially for looking forward to the next time all of those folks can get together again...

...the Fallen Ranger tribute is especially fine, giving background and information not all were able to get at the event...

...from all those who appreciate your selfless contributions to make our Ranger Community even stronger, thank you so much Mike and Judy Flack for giving so much to so many...

RLTW

Mark Jordan

...December Minutes of the USMRA Meeting...

...A good size group again for another hour long meeting...Jerry Massey and John Cavendar were two that don't get to attend as often as others and it was good to have them...Steve Bishop, Ted Tilson and a few others made it even more fun...

...Difference between fairy tale and a war story...fairy tales start off with "once upon a time" and a war story begins with, "this ain't no s**t"...a little bad vietnamese was thrown out...then a call for a prayer by the Padre, Willard Langdon...Willard does a fine prayer again...as usual...well prepared and thought out...

..."Padre you need to stay healthy, cause no one else around here can say a prayer, like that." A story about Doug and a priest playing golf...the priest utters, "d*mn, missed again"...a few times more than Doug can tolerate...finally another one comes and here come the thunder clouds...lightning strikes and Doug is history...a big booming voice then says, "D*mn, missed again!"...

...Willard then gives a brief apologetic about the benefits of praying in public...

...Steve then asked for a fast reading of the minutes from last month...It was an hour long...it took hours to listen to and transcribe into what you're reading...so to keep with the request of "a quick reading of the minutes", I read fast...

...Treasurers report was given by Dan, and there's no money in the Christmas Fund as there's been no request in years from the Camp, so we don't fund that fund any more...

...Steve gave a good impression of Doug Perry, commented on by others, about the turkeys that we got from WalMart for 10 turkeys for Camp personnel...

...Cemetary and Elections are the topics for tonight...

..."Roy Close did an incredible amount of work with a 17 page briefing"...by Bob Suchke...

...I pass out the copies...Doug Perry, "Are we the right kind of 501c3?"...Dan says we're a 501c7 organization...a social club...we should be a 501c19...a Veterans Organization...Dan is going to look into it for reclassifying our organization...Tax wise it won't affect us...

..."There was an incredible amount of people that Roy spoke and met with...Kelly Smith, the adjacent property owner provided his plat for us to make the maps of the cemetary in the briefing that Roy prepared...I read the amount of Liability Insurance of over $500 annually...There's a large area that's available for burial...Three Trustees from the organization should be available to handle any and all concerns leaving all other parties out of the loop...I said that so far Roy and I have indicated interest in being involved with the project...Our organizational makeup would not change and a trust can be developed to manage the cemetary with tax deductions actually now available...Dan said we need to change to a Veterans Organization where we could have trust funds...Steve asks a few times, "Does that change our organization?", and the answer seems to be in formality only...

...Ed asks that we should consider "Why do we want to own real estate?"...Steve says, "Doug can tell you, that Rangers living around here didn't have a pot to p*ss in, and when they died didn't have a place to be buried"...

...keeping the wishes of deceased Rangers, eventually the ashes were spread for those who asked without telling those who would be particular about ashes in the National Forest"...out the back of a huey is quick and dusty...

...Ed returns to being liable as owners of real estate...Bob says that this real estate is a cemetary dating back to the 1800's where we'd have grave sites avaiable for Rangers in the future if we take stewardship of the propery...looking into liability and property transfer from the Methodist Church to trustees of the USMRA...Ed continues with whether we want to own property or not, and "Where does the ownership lead to?"by John Cavendar...Steve spoke of Bob's skill in dropping a tree in the yard next to him...and the cemetary would be a place, a sanctuary of "ashes to ashes, dust to dust"...Eloquently stated by Brian Cunningham that "we leave no Ranger behind"...

...We accept donations for maintenance...

...Ed says Brian's argument was superb...Brian said, "You said 'eloquent'"...

...Bob says the decision is not for tonight but for information to understand what this project of having a cemetary involves...opening and closing of graves was discussed...details beyond what we have to decide on right now which is, "Do we want a cemetary or not?"...

...Steve, "I got a parachute in the top of my barn...wrap me in that, cremate and run me through as a douche, just one more time"...

...Dans going to check on the 501c3...we made a motion to table and not put it out on the web as the details and issues are beyond what we could explain on the web...Steve said "We're the shakers and the movers"..."ExLax?" was heard, summing that up...

...Kelso Horne, county lawyer, is involved and is invited to be out for our next meeting...he was mentioned by Doug as one who should be kept informed and we should meet with him although Roy has already once...

...Lots of brush and scrub but the area is clear...

..."A very good briefing" described Roy's efforts...

...Ted Tilson made a motion to table and have people to continue researching...got the motion and second and table the discussion til later...

...Steve said he'd rather be buried around here and Bob said it could be a very good thing, as he was originally leery of the project he's "warming up to it"...

...Some copies of the briefing were left with members concerned and some were kept to redeliver back to Roy...

...Elections tonight...Dan for Treasurer, Mark for Secretary, Sonny for VP...Ted Tilson nominated Al Parten, seconded by Doug Perry...Steve said he'd run for President, and since no one opposed, his campaign speech was, "You A**holes"...

...Al had a brief speech then Sonny followed...

..."Were you around when the basic load was two rocks?", Brian's question to Sonny...

...Out of sight, the vote for Vice President went to Al Parten...while they were out of sight, Roosevelt Island was talked about but the vote was done by a show of hands...

...Doug Perry is the Governor...5 or 6 years ago, the liasion with the military, giving hand jobs when needed...

...CCO and Fish Fry is on for 4 and 5 May...the 6th is for recuperation...

...the 10th of December is the Ranger Ball and some still don't have their invitation...Bob doesn't have any shoes to wear and some still are wondering if they'll be invited or not...

...apparently Steve Hawk and Steve Caldwell have slept together enough to be able to talk about it in public...All this time, Sonny and Al are still outside waiting to hear who won the election while all this heavy discussion is going...

...some talk about inviting some high ranking Rangers to our events...Grange, Kristofferson, Stringham...

...a Carrie Underwood poster was requested...

..."We need to get along with the elections"...

...Welcoming Al as VP and appreciating Sonny for what he's done for the organization...

...Motion to close with only Bob Suchke indicating against...and wishes for a very Merry Christmas...

...Respectfully submitted...

...Mark Jordan, newly elected S1 for 2012...unless Keith Antonio insists differently...

I said to my wife recently that it seemed to me that these days the American people are much more aware of veterans and their service. There was a time, not too long ago, when the only awareness of Veterans Day by many folks was a day off from work. I am very much pleased to see how this has changed over the past several years to become more of what it was intended to be - a day to recognize service in defense of our country by men and women wholly dedicated and prepared to sacrifice their very lives if called upon. That is such a truly awesome commitment, and their willingness and service must, indeed, be recognized.

I have always held military service to be one of the highest honors one can experience in one's lifetime. Yes, there were some days during those years I served that I would wish upon no one. Perhaps each of you during your service had some days or times or events you would wish on no one. But I think we all agree that if we could go back in space and time and were called upon to do it all over again, each of you would do whatever needed to be done in spite of sacrifice and perhaps suffering you knew you would have to endure all over again.

Let us also take time to remember those who have given their lives in service to our country. May they rest in peace.

I want to take this opportunity to thank each of you for your service to our great country. God bless you. And God bless the United States of America.

Ranger Brian Cunningham

Mark, you done good again! Yes, some of us really do read the msg board. Glad you all are still "vertical and above the grass!" Keep on keepin' on. As far as a "Welcome" sign for the Ranger Class... Used to meet the duece and a half convoy at the rest stop, Interstate, and convoy in to MRC. The "Studs" were always greeted by the TAC NCO and several Instructors/Lane Graders.

Riding in on busses!!! OMG!!! Still remember the "bone butt" ride from Benning to MRC and back, then to Eglin and back to Benning.(circa Class 1- 1961) Grew to really "love" those 2 1/2s!!! Ya all have a safe holiday season and I look forward to meeting and greeting you at the CCO in May. Jim RLTW

...USMRA Meeting Minutes...3 Nov 11

...With a group of visitors attending, Steve Hawk, President, started the meeting with a general greeting and welcome to those visitors before asking Willard Langdon, Chaplain, for prayer. Willard delivered one of his best yet.

...Steve asked for the minutes of last month's meeting to be read and, as posted on the USMRA Message Board, I only changed "hellions" for "rascals" deferring to our visitors' sensitivities.  No one objected and minutes were approved by vote.

...Having no old business, except for a preliminary report about the Critter CookOut from Al Parten, "still 6 or 7 months away", attention was turned to the visitors with Steve reading a list of names in the group. Our Doug Perry being one.

...A spokesperson for the group informed us about a small cemetery, Shady Grove Cemetery,  established in 1857, down Camp Road on August Lane across from Roy Close's old place.  Originally 2 acres given to the Methodist Church, the church wants to get rid of it, calling it "unoccupied territory" and the family is asking us, as a nonprofit organization, to take ownership of it on a Quit Claim Deed and help in the continued maintenace of the cemetery. Rangers would be allowed to be buried there and the last time it was used was 15 years ago.

...Doug Perry spoke of 3 Civil War Veterans, a Blue Ridge Rifle and family members of the Black, Gaddis and Saine families, to which he's related to, as being buried there for generations.  Doug himself has the final plot in the cemetery on Camp between the motor pool and the planning bays for Charlie Company.

...Doug went on to suggest we form a 3 man committee with our Chaplain, Willard, heading it up.  Steve asked Dan for advice and Dan said to take it as a donation at fair market value for the total acreage and we don't pay taxes on it.  

...the group's spokesperson spoke of it being originally 2 acres but land sales of adjacent properties have reduced the size to 1.2acres.  Right now Kelly Smith owns the surrounding property but we do have a paved road directly onto the property.

...As Willard found his opening, he expertly focused on the wisdom of experience of our more senior officers pointing out that we had 3 colonels in attendance tonight.  As great an honor as it would be to head up such a committee, Willard took the focus off of himself and onto others in the group "probably more experienced in such matters".  Genius in action.

...Doug asked for Keith Antonio's input and Keith considerately suggested that the visitors be allowed to leave and we'd be able to continue discussing the matter and get back with them later.  For those who don't know our Keith Antonio was selected as Honorary Colonel of the Ranger Training Brigade, recently nominated by LTC O'Brien of CFM.

...Bob Suchke filled us in on the physical condition of the property with an overhanging tree that needs to be dropped and the cost involved in clearing such problems out.  Doug Perry said there was about an acre left for new burials, with only .2 or.3 acres used already.

...Roy Close spoke of the merits of having the stewardship of the property now and passing it off in a few years.

...Keith Antonio spoke of the liability and costs of maintenace being paid for by the family as we'd supply the labor.

...Dan Rhodes spoke of the need for liability insurance; Doug reminded him the Methodist Church didn't have liability insurance and Dan countered with our sue-happy society today and how necessary coverage would be.  Steve mentioned groups like Boy Scouts having their own insurance.

...Conversations went on for several more minutes.  Then Steve called for a Straw Vote...those in favor to take the property outnumbered those opposed 4 to 1.  

...A committee of Roy Close, Steve Caldwell, headed by Bob Suchke is meeting at the cemetery Tuesday at 1300. Bob's cautiously optimistic yet open minded on the extent of work necessary to get the place on shape.  Steve Hawk said getting his uncle's plot in Oklahoma this summer in 117 degree heat didn't help him any.

...the decision wasade for the committee's report next meetin, 1 Dec and we'd be in touch with the families after that.

...Doug Perry explained the VFW was wanting to put a "Welcome RANGER Class 1-12" with "RTLW" (Doug's quote)...Rangers Lead The Way sign to greet incoming classes.  Someone said that no Rangers would see it as they'd be asleep til the buses stopped at Camp Merrill. Steve spoke of deuce and ahalfs and stopping in Fayetteville.  Bob Suchke asked how hi-tech it was and how much it was gonna cost us. Doug used his fourth 'dam*' to accentuate how tough of a crowd he had to work tonight.  A vote was taken with only Sonny Bragg, VP, opposing. Lots of laughter and chuckling. 

...Dan brought up the Christmas Fund and we resolved to leave it empty since it hasn't been used in years and treat every request for need on a case by case basis.

...Al Parten asked if anyone goes on the message board other than himself and Doug Perry.

...Steve asked our attending MSG about Thanksgiving turkeys and an ability to help out.  Two soldiers will be here on Camp he said.

...Sonny Bragg asked about why December 10th is important and explained this year how the Ranger Christmas Party is being held before rather than after Christmas like last year.  And that more of our organization went.  Doug explained it was invitation only...that Bob Suchke used to get one but didn't go..  Sonny ended with more should go if they'd let someone know they wanted an invitation.

...with no further business the meeting ended after a full 55 minutes as Bob Suchke again declined to end it.

...respectfully submitted...

...Mark E Jordan, S1...

...My truck's transmission is shot and I thought someone might know about where I can get another one...

...1994 Chevy CK1500...

...at Grady's B&B Automotive, corner of Camp Road and Hwy 60...770-366-4838...Thanks!...

...RLTW...

...Mark...

...41 acres on top of Conner Mountain is up for sale again...if you go up FS 80 towards Cooper Gap, it's on the left with a bent black gate...

...the price is too high (right now) but there's a way it can be used for Rangers, who walk over it every cycle as they go up and down Sassafras Mountain...a memorial for sure and also a final ORP for those who'd prefer being in these mountains for a good long time...not unlike what's down near Bldg 4 now...

...anyone caring to find out more and maybe someone having real estate expertise or those willing to offer protection for a more agreeable price, let me know...it's too good to just let some feather merchant build a cabin in the middle of our route plannings...

...RLTW in all endeavors!...

...Mark

October USMRA Minutes

...One of the most enjoyable meetings we've had in awhile...Steve was back; Sonny was off in VA...and we enjoyed some awesome sloppy joes, courtesy of Al and some fabulous baked beans from Chuck...good to have Steve Caldwell and Ted Tilson attending...Ted gifted everyone with very rare cigars in celebration of his new grandson, Isaac...

...Willard Langdon, Chaplain, provided a very sincere and heartfelt prayer for the occasion...

...Steve Hawk begins with an explanation of his absence for the last two meetings...a stroke he was trying to keep on the down low so his family would not be concerned...

...as your cub reporter was remembering posting such a query on the message board a few days ago, my eyes got big, met Steve's, who graciously assured everyone it was okay the way things did get loose...

...Steve, welcoming the news of Isaac also announced his new grandson, Sawyer with another that's projected in the future..."two little hellions, for sure" was muttered by someone...I didn't look...

...Steve explained the limitations he has now, driving being one but his 1953 Willys Jeep is waiting to be rebuilt but that memory was affected by the stroke, not yet returning...

...not trusting on what he'd remember tonight, he justified the use of a Secretary...and we moved into the meeting...

...I read the posted minutes from last meeting; approved by vote...

...Steve began by asking about support for the Camp's Halloween needs and if anyone had heard about it...*crickets chirping*...he continued by explaining the scaled down opportunities that such benefactors as Wal Mart offer today...no discussion...

...Critter Cookout 2012 discussion has officially begun...4, 5 and 6 May is tentative date...both Ted Tilson and Steve giving reviews for last year's event...Al Parten gave a preview of logistical needs and discussion ended with a motion...

...Ted Tilson made the motion that next month, the 3 November meeting, we officially begin planning for the Critter Cookout...seconded and passed...Steve Bishop's name added to the group of planners for the weekend...Ted assured that he's in touch with Steve regularly...

...Bob Suchke offered a crowd control alternative for all those nonmembers who eat at the CCO, not understanding the routine...$5 and armbands...no motion was made but more agreement on communication and coordination among members to plan ahead this year...

...Ted Tilson advocated having a fire pit returned as a fixture for our CCO...as well as a need for the website getting a facelift...Steve spoke of some of Bob's commitments during this time of year as advising the difficulty that Bob would have in turning too much attention to tweaking the site...

...speaking of cookers, a barrel was offered by Dwight Bearden, a "famous movie star".....if someone could do some welding...approval by many in offering trailers and other aid in using the 6' long barrel, never used before...

...for some reason the talk moved over to Dawson County and white lightning...Steve had a sheriff story and Dwight knew exactly who he was talking about...

...Al Parten requested a moment of silence remembering the 18 Rangers lost in Somalia...

...Ted Tilson made the motion to close, seconded and Bob Suchke did not oppose...meeting ended...

...respectfully submitted-RLTW!...

...Mark Jordan, S1...

Now the scholarship question, I sent an email to Brian and have yet to hear from him, can someone set me straight on this process? one of my daughters will graduate LCHS this spring and she wants a chance at the MRC scholarship funds! thanks in advance. RLTW!!

...Cathy Beck, longtime friend and faithful supporter of Rangers here at CFM, is at Northeast GA Medical with a brain aneurysm. Please keep her and all of our members in your thoughts and prayers with the Big Ranger in the Sky.

...per Gary Head...

RLTW

Mark

...USMRA Meeting Addendum...

...LTC O'Brien selected Keith Antonio to represent Camp Merrill as our choice for the Honorary Colonel of the Ranger Training Brigade...

...selection later...

...I've lost Steve Hawk's phone number but I am trying to get an update on his health concerns...if anyone can help, I appreciate it...

...still leading The Way, Rangers!...

...Mark, S1

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of GA, 41 Perimeter Center East, Suite 550, Atlanta, GA 30346 (404)728-1181

...September Minutes of USMRA Meeting, 1 Sep 11...

...Steve Hawk was again unable to preside, so Sonny Bragg began the evening at 1900 sharp...Doug Perry warned that without 3 officers present we couldn't have a meeting and Dan Rhodes, Treasurer walked in...

...With Willard Langdon, Chaplain, absent, Sonny asked Doug Perry to open with a customary opening prayer...Doug said, "Get Mark"...Sonny insisted, but Doug really insisted even more so the prayer was done by the Secretary, Mark Jordan...

...Minutes of last meeting were read and approved and Sonny moved on to the Treasurer's Report with Dan Rhodes...we have some funds...more than I imagined...

...Sonny asked about the Air Conditioning Unit being paid for and Dan assured him it's taken care of...

...a letter from LTC Beckno, former Camp XO, to Sonny with "heartfelt wishes to the Mountain Ranger Association"...

...Old Business...called for...

...LTC O'Brien introduced CSM Frank James from 2d Battalion as "The Man"...Doug Perry immediately gave the CSM a USMRA coin and Dan Rhodes gave him another momento I didn't quite get a good look at, something like a wallet accessory from the USMRA...

...Pete Anderson immediately hits the new CSM up about the barbecues, cookouts and fish fries that have been neglected on a monthly basis and asks permission of the CSM if those things can be resumed. CSM James, on the spot, says he's fine with it and after a few more insights about the past situation with the smokers (reference last month's meeting), Doug Perry nipped things in the bud, Pete walked out and the meeting resumed...

...LTC O'Brien made sure to mention he did contribute to the dontations this month, after Sonny's warmth last month about making a dollar or two go to a good cause. The contribution was noted. Along with that Michael Keohane sent a letter with an amount of donated funds that was twice what the bucket collected by the members present last night. A grateful appreciation for Michael and we hope his jeep knee heels well enough for his continued plans to relocate back here in the Dahlonega area soon.

...Sonny asked for any Old Business...

...Dan asked about the planned Eating Meeting for October, asking about the auction that Steve talked about. Potluck, everyone brings something, and Doug talks about having a committee with Al Parten volunteering and Sonny delegating Al as Chairman and POC and having room to collect volunteers to help, but being Pot Luck, everyone bringing their own stuff, it seems minimal in logistics at this point.

...Sonny asks for Coin Sales and Robert Suchke gave an up to the minute account of sales, even to last night. These funds will be noted in our next meeting.

...New Business...LTC O'Brien announced that our member Keith Antonio is selected as the Camp's Representative in this year's RTB selection of...

***recording stopped***

...an addendum will be made asap as to exactly what this announcement is about, but we're all proud of our own Keith Antonio being selected from a group of capable Rangers in the selection pool...

...with no other new business the meeting was adjourned with the lone dissenting vote of Bob Suchke that we have come to expect for adjourning the revelry of our monthly meetings...

...John Cavender, NGC '59...Ranger Class 2-60, and former RI in '63 attended the meeting, seconding the motion to conclude our meeting. John's ancestral home is among the locations where Rangers have roamed for decades, the Cavender CP coming to mind for this Ranger as 'home' for the RM1R33N staffs...

...expect more comments as the next meeting approaches for the Eating Meeting in October...this should be a great way for many to attend and enjoy the great weather around Camp Merrill this next meeting...

...may all those who were unable to attend be healthy and happy and remember that you're the first one talked about for not showing...

...respectfully submitted...RLTW...

...Mark Jordan, S1-Secretary...

...Minutes from August Meeting...

...Steve was under the weather, Doug Perry has pneumonia...it was up to Sonny to lead the way...

...some crazy idea of taping the meeting came to mind of an idealistic S1 that YouTube would be a great way to share what goes on during these hallowed moments all over the world...

...the plane was heading down fast, 2 minutes in...

...First problem...tip jar...Sonny mentioned it then Willard the Chaplain produced it...problem solved...Sonny nails the Camp CO for at least a dollar, who pleads penniless...

...Pete took the floor with one thing to say: having gotten no free t-shirts, this last one was his last one...expletives as such made me worry about posting rules on YouTube...

...Chuck spoke of having to buy his...

...Al Parten had question about building a smoker, with Gary Head's kin helping us out last year and with two for free next year...

...audio went out on my video tape...Al kept talking about the smoker and Sonny moved things along...

...Dan Rhode's in SC but Bob Williams gave his report as Treasurer...

...Al Parten donated two tables, worth $600 each, recovered from NGCSU and Mountain Mike said he could put them on his porch for safe keeping...

...Sonny said if anyone had individual things dealing with individual people they "should take this up away from the group", then turned attention to Robert Suchke and his report for money to be recorded by the Treasurer.

...Pete had his second one thing...the smoker back outside is there for all to use...Bob Suchke yelled, "Thanks Pete" and Al spoke of the October eating before Sonny turned back to old business.

...Sgt Fuller, Club Manager, spoke of the new AC and it cost $432.29...Sonny said we'd get him the difference, but Bob Suchke figured we could give him the difference from the money off the coin sales...Sonny called for a discussion, which confused some others, and since some foks "don't know what they're voting on", some discussion brought a motion...for $32.39...passed unanimously and Bob took the money and Sonny affirmed we'll solve any problem that "comes before us"...

...folks started calling Sonny, "Mr. Chairman"...

...talk of Doug Perry in the hospital, released Wednesday from the hospital...Sonny asked about contact info, and we should call or go see him..."All of us need to have his number and to let him know he's not just loved by some of us, but all of us"...Someone claimed to know Doug better and "it was likely he'd cuss you out if you just up and called him out of the blue"...

...Chuck motioned for Mr. Chairman to donate tee-shirts to Pete, asking for a chance to remark...Sonny asked for any discussion, which seemed to be what Chuck initially was asking for...Then without further ado, we have a motion, second, and Bob Williams, just as this was about to be law, jumps in and says the old tee shirts are gone, they were left over from the year before but the brand new designs are first to go to Pete, what color, size and Bob will get them for him with the brand new logo...the old one retooled...

...Sonny wants Pete to wear the tee shirts the next time we see him...called for a vote....all in favor passed unanimously...

...Pete had another something to say...a fish fry at least twice a month, but Bob Suchke said about during the USMRA meetings, since Pete's willing to do the work...someone get the fish...and return the bi-monthly fish fry...again Bob Suchke saying have it done during the once a month meeting...Sonny explained what "more regular" meant...Al Parten asked for point of contact on fish..."Logistics wags the tail", from Bob Suchke...Pete was told by Sonny, "we'll report on this for the next meeting", the logistics about how all this will be done...

...any further new business...Four more Fallen Rangers are able to be recognized with information going to Bob Williams...

...Pete has another one things...the sign with Peanut Anderson, Ranger Buddy, who helped Pete at CCO since '63..."don't know how much I appreciate it"...

...Sonny asked for motion, and second to finish, Al made the motion and then the Camp CO was identified...Sonny-"Please address us"...LTC O'Brien_"You're addressed"...not so easy...again, prompted to speak, LTC O'Brien spoke of the new CSM Frank James, on the 12th of August, at 0900, a ceremony for him down at Lower Mountaineering...

,,,Sonny again appreciated the LTC for being here and then, before "we almost screwed up", Sonny asked for a motion to adjourn, seconded immediately with Bob Suchke again deferring...

...22 minutes in...if anyone wants a copy of the video, I'll hope it won't get past too much further...we're almost ready for prime time...*right*...

...just one more thing...

...Rangers are still Leading The Way...

Tom, I have yours but you now have my new one as well.

‎...my hope is that Veterans can not just come together to talk about their experiences and find camaraderie and empathy from those who can understand like no other but can adapt a tried and true method for dealing with overwhelming emotional issues that result in many finding 12 Step Programs for the effects of what has occured during military service...

...the groups may be as broad as all service members to as specific as a particular infantry company...

...reality requires adaption and to my honest opinion of a need that must be dealt with, our Veterans will never get enough compassion for their sacrifices, both seen and those never talked about...

...VA...Veterans Anonymous...

...spread the word please because everything is already in place...12 Steps are everywhere...

...and Veterans are too...

...Bless you for caring,

Veterans Anonymous

Step 1 - We admitted we were powerless over our situation - that our lives had become unmanageable.

Step 2 - We came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.

Step 3 - We made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood God.

Step 4 - We made a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves.

Step 5 - We admitted to God,  to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.

Step 6 - We were entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character.

Step 7 - We humbly asked God to remove our shortcomings.

Step 8 - We made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.

Step 9 - We made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.

Step 10 - We continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong promptly admitted it.

Step 11 - We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood God, praying only for knowledge of God's will for us and the power to carry that out.

Step 12 - Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to other addicts, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.

I will travel early Wednesday from Fort Meade, Maryland to be present and honor those being inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame. Tentative plan has us staying at Fort Benning through Friday morning. I plan to attend the BBQ on Wednesday afternoon and the Change of Cmmand on Thursday. I will have an old 1-75 Ranger buddy, Mr.Gordon Hockman, traveling with me both days. His son is now in 1-75 currently serving OCONUS. We plan to visit the old Ranger Department area and walk down memory lane before the pines reclaim all signs of that sacred place.

Houston - a little more explanation on Tricare please? If I understand correctly, there are two types of Tricare - prime and standard/extra. (and TFL past a certain age) Prime appears to be HMO-based while Standard/Extra depends on whether you see in-network or non-network. I don't know, but I would think that Ivan's situation would have required prior authorization no matter which Tricare he had. I'd like to hear the real differences between the 2 Tricare plans and would appreciate input, experience, advise. Thanks!

RLTW

...July Minutes for USMRA Meeting 7 Jul 11...

...Willard Langdon, Chaplain, began the meeting with prayer...

...Steve Hawk asked for a motion to approve the prayer...then asked for the reading of the meeting from June...

...minutes read...

...Steve remarked how the minutes didn't have to be verbatim, and Bob Williams brought it up that the funds don't have to be aired in public either...

...Bob Suchke motioned to approve the minutes, got a second and now we're on to this month's happenings...

...Editorial privilege about salacious slanderings and other stuff that should't get past the walls of the Overhang is given to Bob Williams, the WebMaster, to make sure this stuff is alright with everybody for everything...

...Names for Fallen Ranger, Eric McGinnis, 1st Batt...died last year, from New York, given by Steve Hawks via a brother...nominated by Steve...

...At CCO we forgot about recognizing the Ranger Buddies for this year...Ned White and Peanut Anderson will be recognized this year and Chief Weaver is mentioned about being the Ranger Buddy nominee for this year...Bob Suchke remarked how well he was at getting anything needed through the supply system, by the books...

...quick war story that I'm not supposed to write down...about jumping jeeps at HAAF...property disposal was the solution...Steve Hawk's story...a patch welded on a cracked block became the 3rd unauthorized jeep for 1st Batt...the way the Army used to work...trading COL in the AF some jungle fatigues and c-rations for a select plane...

...Plaques done by Bob Williams for the Officer and NCO Instructors Of The Year were present, but attendance from the active cadre was nil, so the plaques will be forwarded to the appropriate sections of the camp for their own distribution...

...Pete Anderson and Steve Bishop talked about the CCO and the money took in...all were quite happy except Pete didn't get a tee shirt for the first time...

...still looking for a storage space using a conex that's up near the motor pool possibly...working on a new grill, 200 gallon propane tank...rebuilding a very old jeep that's already in bad shape because he found a gun mount at a yard sale...quite a long discussion about what could be mounted on a jeep in terms of gun mounts, etc...

...New Business...format for plaques as possible model to be used for future ones...Bob paid for these himself...Nominations for Fallen Ranger given to Bob Williams asap, as usual...

...Ranger Rendezvous at Fort Benning, 25 - 30 July...Bob Suchke asked about a jump and in Alabama there's a C-47 with static line jumps where you can still do some jumps...Sonny Bragg talked about jumping T-7 chutes, seeing stars...

...New Regimental Sergeant Major is Bielich, but that's not for sure on the spelling...

...Steve asked who was the new Camp Sergeant Major, whereupon the S1 said that had been covered on the minutes read earlier...Frank James, from 2nd Batt...

...Steve is getting a full day hopefully, sometime soon, to work on his jeep...and stories about his wife are not heard, much less written down...

...Doug Perry got thrown out of a church in Dahlonega because of a tee shirt he was wearing...other sordid tales about virginity, and how that led to getting rid of tee shirts throughout the battalion...health and welfare inspection...

...Getting the plaques to the honorees and the Pot Luck Dinner in October were asked about, with no new business, so Sonny motioned, got a second and Bob Suchke again dissented to adjourn the meeting...at 1934...

...Derek Runyon attended for the first time in a while...

...Respectfully Submitted by the S1...

...RLTW...Mark Jordan

...one way I'm spreading the word about the USMRA is to give a coin to  whatever family member of a Ranger mentions that distinction to me out in ghe random public...

...1st and 2nd Batt wives of Rangers living within an hour's drive of  CFM...were told to ask their husbands to sign up or maybe attend the meetings and get their own coin...

...just an idea...

...bet I never see those coins again...

...Mark...ever vigilant S1...

...Minutes from the June Meeting...

...Meeting held inside the Overhang bar area due to oppressive heat of malfunctioning air conditioning units that need replacing and/or repairing...

...Willard Langdon, Chaplain, opened with prayer...

...Steve Hawk, President, asks for reading of last month's minutes, as Sonny Bragg, Vice-President, has become the resident rule guy and knows all about Hoyle's Rules for Order and other such things that make meetings official..

...after the reading of the notes, Steve asks for approval of minutes, all seem okay with the effort, and we proceeded to get into this month's matters with Dan Rhodes, Treasurer, giving an account of the funds...

...$828.63 total with $558.63 in the general fund and with $270.00 for the scholarship fund...all donations made from June thru August go toward the scholarship fund...

...MSG Bulloch introduced LTC O'Brien as the new Camp Commander, due to have the change of command in the upcoming days...former cadre at North Georgia College where he met his wife...Butch Tester, in attendance, was the PMS at NGCSU at the time of LTC O'Brien's service there...

...Ranger Bischoff, new attendee, was the first Club Officer at the camp, and a 2nd LT as a TAC Officer...

...Ranger Art McCann, RI from 93-96 and member of Alpha Company, former SGM also in attendance...

...the Change of Command Ceremony is soon, this coming Tuesday, when LTC Stone will hand over the glory to LTC O'Brien at 9am...Dan Rhodes tossed an envelope to Steve with a patch designed by former SGM Mike Ramsey to be given to LTC O'Brien...

...MSG Bulloch, Camp S3 NCO, spoke of the incoming Sergeant Major from Fort Lewis, Frank James, with the next Ranger Class being here in June...

...Doug Perry asked to confirm the rumor of Brian Beckno, former Camp XO, now a newly promoted LTC, being married now that he's down in Camp Swampy...MSG Bulloch confirmed...Steve Hawk added the story of Don Miles, former RI, as being married 7 times with 8 wives...marrying one and divorcing the same when orders came for a new duty station...seemed to be on good terms with all of them until when he was out at Dugway Proving Grounds and his current Mormon wife didn't cotton to the idea of divorce as readily as the rest did...

...assuring the new Camp CO that we do get some business done at the meetings, LTC O'Brien assured us he won't be bringing his wife to any of the meetings...then Steve started to talk of how Doug Perry used to meet girls down on the square in Dahlonega, but since the new Camp CO met his wife in Dahlonega, he decided not to...

...Doug shifted the focus to Sgt Fuller, the new manager of the club who asked for donations for the maintenance of the air conditioning units in the club, many of which aren't working at all...Steve asked for a motion, COL Tester made it and Doug seconded it with a unanimous vote of $400 going to purchase a unit for the latrine at least...

...All the Air Conditioning needs some maintenance or replacement and just to let that be known for anyone who might have some skill at fixing or locating reliable equipment to maintain the comfort of the Club is desperately needed right now...so if anyone knows of someone who can repair this equipment or have a source for getting good reliable used/new units, your input would be appreciated greatly...Steve Hawk has 2 he can give...

...Bob Suchke has 3 more belt buckles like the one Ranger Al Brashier donated at the CCO, each going for $100, thanks to Bat Nelson's generous bidding...also he presented LTC Bryant with his own USMRA Coin...

...Bob Williams, Webmaster, reminded of presenting plaques to the Instructors of the Year, recognized earlier by MSG Bulloch, but he still needs the information to put on the plaques...

...Friday evening at 1800 LTC Stone will have a plaque presented from Sonny and Doug, representing the organization...

...I added, as the meeting was winding down, to make sure I have the SPELLING of anyone's name who might be offended if I hear it other than how it's spelled...don't blame the messenger if you don't take the time to insure it fits your discriminating taste for perfection...Ranger Bischoff took the time...

...Steve Hawk informed of a Pot Luck Meal on October 6...again asking for donations...

...Ranger Petry, SFC, now at HHC, RTB formerly 2nd Batt, recognized for receiving the Medal of Honor...

...Doug Perry remembered in Vietnam of Marines throwing grenades at them, but then they pulled the pins and threw them back...

...Steve Hawk then had to tell the story of picking up cute college girls down on the square...suggesting a line that tickling their fourth point of contact with a feather was a good indicator of the girl's mindset...then if she's insulted, saying "typically nice weather"...Doug tried it..."cram a feather up your a**?"...insulted response got the safe word, "Oh f**k, it's gonna rain!"...Doug had trouble picking up women...

...MSG Bulloch spoke of the Rangers today at CFM getting Soldier of the Quarter, Post Officer and NCO Instructors of the Year, continuing the fine performance of our present cadre...

...with no other business, meeting was adjourned at 1923 with Bob Suchke being the only dissenting vote...

...respectfully submitted...for all Rangers who Lead the Way!...

...Mark E Jordan, S1

...you know, we could go 'high tech' and figure out how to "skype" our meetings and events...

...I am not techno-qualified but somebody is...

...grizzly owens...we woulda tac'd a fine class together, given the chance...

...RLTW, 'cept for some of those space age techno thingys...

...soooo...Ranger Woodring is going to be the assistant secretary and foolproof this geriatric measure of relating what can't be heard into what can't be accurate upon dissemination back at the ORP?...the idea seems good to me...and it would help in those areas of getting the details preciase...phonics and english are two different worlds...

...and thank you generously Ranger Owen; I try to emulate Ross Hall, a great American...mostly cause he's Sharon's husband, and a pretty decent wordsmith himself...

...and Mike Ramsey reads me, keeping a sharp eye out for minute areas upon which I strive to improve...but I do show up at times...which would be awesome to think some others would too...for no other reason than to add some clarity to the legends that keep on getting more and more grand, each year...

...and I was a psych major, hence what I do now...counseling, online...at peace-joy-love.org...but nobody I know wearing the Tab seems to need any of it, so I let the rest of the world fill in...

...The Leaders of The Way...Rangers...!!!

...USMRA Meeting Notes...

Preceding the meeting, the gathering for the Fallen Ranger Memorial, on the grass outside the Overhang...

...Brian Cunningham, representing the Scholarship Committee announced that David O'Rear, son of 1Sgt (ret) David O'Rear and David Housewright, grandson of Jesse Davis, one of the earliest Ranger Instructors at CFM, would receive this year's scholarships...

...Planning Bay signs, honoring past Ranger Instructors, were rotated with Ranger David McClain, '71...Ranger Tom Joyner, '71...Ranger Michael Vick, '72...Ranger Steve Beltraine, '72...Ranger Charles (DJ) Dejarnette, '72 and Ranger Bill Jett, '72...DJ and Tom were in attendance...

...Fallen Rangers...Steve Hawk introduces Bob Suchke who leads off with Ranger Bob Howard; Kevin Connell presented Ranger Kevin Jenrette; Bill Dawson presented Ranger Justin Munschke; Dennis Smith, Brigade Sergeant Major, presented Ranger John Peney, with his mother adding her own words; Brian Cunningham presented Ranger Robert Pittman; Willard Langdon presented Ranger Hoyt "Whip" Wilson...

...Steve Hawk winds up with invitations to come back and visit as "family"..."don't look for an invite, but don't hesitate to come visit"...

...Former Camp Commander from 41 years ago...Shalivasvilli...(spelling is nowhere close)...

...Former RI Ed Nelson played Taps on his trumpet, ending the Fallen Ranger Memorial Dedication for this year's group...all invited to enjoy the Critter Cookout with the USMRA meeting to follow...

****USMRA Meeting****

...Willard Langdon, opens with prayer...

...Dan gives the Treasurer's report...about $100 not counting donations given that day...

...Steve Hawk, selling most of the T shirts...

...Sonny Bragg, corrects the order of reports, saying the Secretary should be before the Treasurer...so I read the notes from last meeting, using written notes...referring to website at USMRA.ORG...Sonny makes motion to accept meeting minutes, seconded and I'm putting it down that it was alright...

...New Business...trying to obtain a storage building or conex for cooking equipment...word discussed about the donated boy scout van being allowed to be used if they could get a smaller one similar to those sold at Home Depot...Steve says 2 conexes in lay down yard...asked to look into it by Steve Hawk...some discussion offered for energy savings by a visiting member, with who might be interested, but not us...

...Al Brashier donated a brass belt buckle with Ranger designations and Bob Suchke held an impromptu auction which started bidding at $15, stalled at $26.50 then ended up at $95, then $100, sold...but to who, I didn't get...Bishop, Gray, and others bidding...

...Golf Sponsorship, for $500, was based on money raised...paying for 2 kegs of beer...discussion...$200 turned in for coins sold by Bob Suchke...hands raising showed most unconcerned with sponsoring....12 for and 7 against...almost 50 in attendance for the meeting...

...Letter writing campaign...60% of our addresses are incorrect...sending out 1108 at that rate, with maybe a 40% return...maybe a posting online, but at 63 cents per letter, email was again brought up as cheaper by Bob Williams...500 members aren't able to be reached by email, a real need to get our addresses up to date...we've already voted this in, but discovering the faulty addresses the passed motion was dropped, not tabled, but there is a chance at this posting that Keith Antonio proceeded with the letters being printed incurring a cost that was already approved...an 8 cent postcard was mentioned, the return cost of a bad address was brought up, like 60 cents...

...the amount of scholarship money was brought up but Steve Bishop said it wasn't the amount but the recognition that is memorable, which was also

...a motion to "quash" the idea of the letter campaign, since it was voted in...can't table it...we have to "undo" it...if we got $5 from each member a year it'd be $5000+...December 19, a few years ago, a RI's house burned down and we were able to raise $10,000 from donations worldwide...

...a motion to quash, seconded...all in favor won the vote...we'll "quash" the letter writing campaign and put our requests on the website and other points of communication...

...Al Brashier recommended corporate sponsorhip...we have a letter that describes what our association does that's 15 pages long...

...a challenge from Steve Bishop to talk about the organization to one friend...again maybe an 8 cent postcard...this will be brought up to Keith who was unable to attend the meeting...

...First time at CCO...Fairhope, AL, Tom 4-71...Steve Woodry, 7-75...

...Who came the farthest...Ron McElliott from Oregon, who lost his voice...a monetary gift was presented...(small)...

...a ghost story was told, someting about McElliott eating goldfish...

...Commendation for the guys who cooked...all enjoyed...

...great response from all the family that showed up for the Fallen Ranger Memorial...a PA system for next year...

...adjourned...( the names are mispelled, some not attempted...my hearing and writing are sometimes in conflict with one another; my apologies, none meant to offend )...

I'll be sure to ask after ya next year, Ross. :-) And thanks again y'all for a fine demonstration, food, and most importantly....friendship! RLTW

...I'm going to get the minutes up asap...

...a brief idea of what some missed this weekend when again the Open House and Critter Cookout coincided...

it was good for the crowds...

...Friday nite's Fish Fry was a bit smaller because 2 Ranger Companies didn't have a reunion this year, But...there were some old Rangers who seldom, if ever have been there...

the selfless service of those who did the work, Steve Bishop, Gary Head, Pete Anderson and Al Parten, along with others whose names I'd not get right, are absolutely the leaders of our merry band of old guys...they work like they're getting the most out of this by giving so much of their time and effort to make each gathering the best ever...great trout and awesome hush puppies!...

for The CCO!...lots of meat cooked, eaten and left over..armadillo salad was my first...

..support from Camp on tents, tables, chairs, cots, water buffalo, portajohns was excellent with parking so exclusive and limited for anybody else other than USMRA members to get to the Overhang, (Doug Perry's been looking out) we had no problem getting in....

..evenings ended late but the Club Crew stayed open til way late, mostly for the younger ones as the tent was making all sorts of painful groans and snorts as if a herd of buffalo was inside......awesome good though...

...many who I haven't seen in a long time showed up, and those who couldn't make it were the top of the list for 'talking about'......

Bill Spies stick will be returned in July at the Ranger Rendezvous...

...for all the Ranger Moms out there. .

...yesterday at Camp Merrill, the CSM of the Ranger Brigade read the dedication of a name on the Fallen Ranger Memorial...the mother there to hear it, see it and feel the love of so many others around her who now call her 'Mom'...

...she first met me at the Best Ranger Competition to tell me she'd be there...

...a young E6 Ranger was her arm to hold while tears blessed the ground...

...Meeting Minutes will be up when I find one or more missing ball, so as to be either heard or read plainly...and when I get some time to do it...

...Ranger enjoy Leading Tgr Way!...

...if he's from central Arkansas, I bet he's the one...it does seem I remember him talking about Panama...he's about 6'3", 265 lbs now...dark hair...looks like an offensive tackle...

...but all these young fellows just don't seem old enough to me to be Gene Hawkins...all of us who remember that it was him as Camp commander in '79 that came up with the idea of the Best Ranger Competition being between RI's from the 3 camps...and Maj John Matthews and Cpt Jim Jarvis coming up with the original Ranger Run...

After due consideration of the applications, it is the decision of the 2010 USMRA Scholarship Committee that Mr. David O'Rear and Mr. David Housewright be recognized as the winners for 2011. Each of these exemplary students will receive a $500 scholarship award.

David O'Rear is the son of 1SG (ret.) David Carson O'Rear Sr. David Housewright is the grandson of Jesse P. Davis, one of the first Ranger Instructors at CFM.

Respectfully submitted:

Ranger Keith Antonia

Ranger J.D. Kirby

Ranger Brian Cunningham

RLTW

..a week ago tonight my brother and I enjoyed dinner with CSM Guy (Lawrence) Elder and LTC Matt Siefert, 6th RTB, at BRC...

...Guy was an RI at CFM and knows everybody that I knew too as RI's...my protege, MR...everyone's hero,TW...and my climbing buddy at Seneca Rocks, WV, JM...small world indeed...

...he's about to retire and sends his regards to all at the CCO...

...Matt and my brother went on about stocks and stuff and Guy and I just shared glory...

...and it was also good to see Ted Tilson and Doug Perry representing the USMRA too!...

...if anyone's on the fence about this year's fish fry, CCO and Open House, my advice is to come...something tells me it's going to be memorable...

Always RLTW!...

I am planning to be a the Mountain Ranger Association Fish Fry and Cookout. First time I've been back to the Mountain Ranger Camp since 1975.

I returned to Fort Benning in 1970 from my second combat tour with the 3rd Brigade, 101st in RVN, attended the Infantry Officer's Advance Course and then Ranger School. (My sequencing in Military Education wasn't the best! ;-) I graduated in Ranger Class 3-71, and then replaced Bob Mayher as the Senior Tactical Officer at the Ranger Department Headquarters, at Fort Benning. I was the Class Tactical Officer for 8-71 (Class Tac NCO SFC Rubio from Camp Darby BRC) and then for an ROTC Class in 1974. (Class Tac NCO SSG Johnny Hughes (Johnny Quest) from MRC)

I was also the Ranger Department Coordinator of Instruction in 1974-75 when we first tried to identify the specific standards for Patrol Leadership grading. This was when the Army was introducing "Task Condition Standard" and we worked hard trying to make those patrol leadership standards - comprehensive and fair. I remember several contentious meetings at the Mountain Ranger Camp, reviewing proposed grading standards.

After four years in the Ranger Department I departed for Degree Completion at St Martins College in Lacey Washington, then the Special Forces Qualification Course in the fall 1976, SF Detachment Europe (located in Bad Toelz).

From 1984-86 I was one of the 55 Trainers in El Salvador

From 1986-88 I was the Commander of 2nd Bn, 1st SF Group

From 1991-1992 I was the Director of Doctrine and Training at the Special Warfare Center and School.

From 1993-95 I was the Commander 7th SF Group. Retired from active duty, with 29 years service in summer of 1995. Rangers Lead the Way!

We are getting ready to send out some information of the snail mail variety. If you have had a change of address since you became a member, please send me an email or go to our membership page on the Unit Roster and send in an updated membership request.

Still deployed in Afghanistan but read the meeting notes. I can provide ground deer and elk as required for CCO. Doug Perry knows how and where to get needed supplies. I am scheduled to redeploy on 06 May and might be home the night before CCO but OCONUS travel is never a certain thing; if home, I will be there to say hello. Many great things happening in Afghanistan with old Mountain Rangers.....I just completed a mission with 1-101 BCT and spent some time with former Mountain Rangers (SPC Ken Bolin-now 1SG Bolin and SSG Fields-now CSM Fields)in the lovely mountains of Eastern Afghanistan. Both of these great warriors are doing amazing things and leading Troops in the most demandng positions. CSM Fields will soon retire after serving in four Battalions as CSM....he will have over 30 years active service and is still leading the way! 1SG Bolin is on the cutting edge and performing solidly in the most demanding terrain in the country.....makes me very proud to know these mountain men! Everyone take care and hope to see you at the CCO if travel plans work out. Respectfully, Tom Wilburn

...Monthly Meeting Minutes...

...Willard Langdon, Chaplain, started the meeting, held outside on the porch, with prayer...ending with references to the upcoming Critter Cookout next month, Steve Hawk, President, added a word about 'not burning down the gym'...

...21 members counted, including Steve Caldwell, dealing with throat cancer...

...Treasurer Dan is kept busy elsewhere these days and Doug Perry requested two checks for the Critter Cookout, with Steve Hawk agreeing to sign them for supplies for the CCO...Al Parten, Ted Tilson, Steve Bishop and Gary Head met before our meeting to discuss logistics for all the cooking, food, supplies, etc...with kegs at $72.00+ we decided on 2, one per day tapped after 1600, with overall costs about $800.00...

...Keith Antonio presented some preliminary cost projections for an initial mailing for requestiong donations for the USMRA...he based his calculations on an 1,800 member organization with an approximate cost for material, postage and handling to total roughly $1,500.00 at 63 cents each...Bob Williams quickly readjusted the membership to 1,100 members which decreased Keith's costs considerably...

...Jerry Grey made a motion to pursue this venture, by pledging $300.00 to kick off the effort...Ted Tilson seconded and the motion was passed...

...some referral to a one legged cat trying to cover up s**t on a frozen pond drew some moderate approval from the gallery...alluding to how a CCO evolves...some were noticed asking how that could remind someone of a one legged frozen cat...

...Al Parten, Ross Hall, Brian Stagg and Steve Caldwell were recognized and appreciated for being here and all donations collected into Steve Bishop's crystal mug went to help Steve Caldwell with bills as Jeff explained the 5 month wait on Social Security and such with this recovery from cancer...

...Doug Perry mentioned some hopeful sources of meat for the CCO, Bill Spies, Tom Wilburn, etc and the presence of wild hogs along the TVD was brought up by Ted Tilson...

...there are 2 Scholarship entries this year and yesterday was the last day to submit candidates...

...Doug Perry recognized SFC Carbone and CPT Terry as TRADOC Instructors of the Year...Doug Perry suggested recognizing their achievement with a certificate and plaque from the USMRA, making a motion that was seconded by Bob Williams who offered to pay for the plaques...a possible presentation at Open House was suggested as maximizing the community awareness of just how elite and special 5th RTB Rangers are...

...Keith Antonio brought up the sponsorship of a 4 member team at a golf tournament, that benefits organizations that support veterans, as we'd done last year when that team came in first...Jeff Waters agreed citing 'defending champs', Bob Williams seconded and the $500.00 fee was approved by a complete majority...

...the UH-72 Lakota medevac helicopter warmed up drowning out the meeting as the french manufactured, no armament, no protection, noise violation was generally dismissed as a flying limousine for generals...

...Steve Caldwell's, original member of 1st Batt, grim situation with cancer was brought up; Steve Hawk suggested all money collected that night was to go to Steve Caldwell for his pressing needs and Steve Bishop's generously gave his mug too...Jeff advocated taking care of really one of our own as we had for others in the past...

...Bob Williams spoke of Kelly Hyde having the access to our USMRA merchandise; an old Pen Cove CCO design of possum, raccoon, knives and fork as a replacement of the hot dog one last used; some talk was made about CCO t shirts...nothing decided...

...Keith Antonio offered to get Sonny home after Bob Suchke brought him to the meeting...Steve Hawk offered to drag him behind his car...Sonny went home with Keith...

...former Club Managers present were Sean Henschen, Jeff Waters and Jerry Grey...and Doug Perry asked for a round of applause for all their support that each one has shown the USMRA...

...the next meeting will be the Critter Cookout in May and at 19:31 the meeting adjourned...

RLTW!

Mark

I was a Instructor (jr.) at the Ranger Mountain Camp from October 23, 1958 to October 27, 1960. I was a member of the Long Range Patrolling Committee and, for most of my tour ran Friendly Front Lines. I also co-ordinated helicopter operations and was NCOIC of problem 8512 - the final problem.

I never got the Tab - could not pass the swimming test and never served in a Ranger unit in combat.

I am an associate member of the US Army Ranger Association and plan to move to Dahlonega by September.

Would like to meet my fellow instructors and share tales.

I am looking for Jack Daniel. I was (am) an Army Brat who knew Jack Daniel and his family and played on one of his football teams in Germany, the Heidelberg Cowboys. I lost contact and was searching the internet and came across some posts this site. Thanks, Mike Wesneski

My name is Lisa Robert; I am a Casting Associate for Spike Televisions new show, “Most Lethal.” We are looking for SOF Operators to compete against each other for a Grand Prize of $100,000. They will be going to Specialized Training Facilities around the nation where we will test skills like, breaching, rope work, close quarters combat, force escalation, heavy weaponry and much more. I would love to get the word out to your Ranger community to ensure that you are all represented by the best of the best. I have attached our casting flyer and a press release. I wanted to see if there is any possible way to spread it through your community. I can be contacted at the number below!

Thanks,

...I'd tell my version of Ramsey getting the drop on me, but of course, you know Mike would have the real version...

...so, I'm gonna hope for once he'll be at the CCO for 15 minutes to let him tell it...

...but a 'no show' would bring out the truth, my way...

...I wouldn't have done that to him...

RLTW...Mark

Blessings, ~C

...I'll keep notes next time, Ted...but that was an example, Jimmy Padgett, during the discussion of our former 'associate member' motion that passed unanimously for approval...just getting your name in print there Ted for my small part in getting the word out about our meetings...

...and Steve Bishop is wired in tight on the fish fry, referring our appreciation for Al Parten to the cooking of the meat the next day...

...right now we're looking good for the CCO and hope all can attend this year...

RLTW!...Mark

RLTW

...tonight's meeting got something we've talked about for awhile being made real...we've got a secretary...to give the basic information that comes out of each meeting...

...until a vote in December, when officers are voted in, I'm going to try and recount what went on...almost accurately I hope...

...let's see what I remember, since this came at the end of the filibustering...

...all the posts you've got so far, as is, are still in place...Critter Cookout, Open House...all the same...

...Bob Suchke prepared a letter and read it about "associate membership"...basically now, there ain't no more...those who are in now, as associates, will be that way, but until a later date, when this position may be opened up again, it has to be voted on and approved like the rest of what we do, but for now, there'll be no more members accepted unless they are Rangers who completed the course and earned the Tab or those who've served with Ranger units in combat...period...just like it states on our home page...

...a "capital campaign" was brought up to raise some funds for the activities we're involved with already...this was brought to the attention by Keith Antonio, who is also the stand by if I don't make the meetings...much like Sonny did when Steve was sidelined for a couple of meetings, and he invoked "the rule of Sonny" to get things done...this campaign is going to be a first for the organization that now numbers close to 1100...

...a few who haven't been there for some time did make it back, but like I said, I didn't have my second lieutenant pen and paper with me like I will start carrying from now on...once an S1...always and S1?...we'll see...

...Jimmy Padgett is Ranger qualified despite the rumors otherwise, confirmed Doug Perry...Ted Tilson's name was mentioned...

...to allow something to be brought up for general discussion, please use the message board here to voice your interests...I'll bring it up and include who it was who wanted to know...contact me by my email if needed...I will present it, as the messenger that works both sides of this communication fence...

...it was good seeing DJ there, and Jeff seems to have made some real progress on a transmission/car concern for one of the folks talked about some months ago...

...my pen and paper will be lethal next time...I may even tell of how Mike Ramsey got the best of me late one night in the metropolitan area of Dahlonega...

...may all your projects be successful and know that the USMRA seeks to do what it does, promote fellowship and brotherhood among Rangers, especially those who know what a gouge it is up the TVD, every time...

RLTW...Mark

Blessings y'all, ~C xoxo

Cookie Brinkley needs help!! I am donating a case of Girl Scout cookies to a soldier stationed in Afghanistan. Would someone please give me the name & address of someone you know who might enjoy a case of cookies from Cookie?

PS - this is also posted on the RLTW FB group.....so whoever can get a name and address to me first...

Now I want to make that CD available FREE to whomever wants it by making a link available I can email to you for download. I already did this on the FB Ranger site. If anyone wants one please send me an email address and I'll send you the link. My email pageone@windstream.net.

And Doug - thanks for the update on Earl. I will continue to keep him on my prayer list.

Blessings~ RLTW

RGR David McClain ‘71

RGR Thomas Joyner ‘71

RGR Michael Vick ‘72

RGR Steven Beltran ‘72

RGR Charles DeJarnett ‘72

RGR William Janous ‘72

2011 Honorees: Please send a one page bio to be posted along with your sign in the planning bay to co.2nd.rgr.co@gmail.com

RLTW

Brian Cunningham

Brian Cunningham, Scholarship Committee 2011

MERRY CHRISTMAS my brothers

Ranger Hawk

When we got moved permanently to Dahlonega Jerry was the PSG. Then he was an E-6. Jerry took me into the platoon as I was an young out of control punk that needed to be taught a thing or two. Jerry believed in me and took me under his wing. I learned how to be a soldier and more importantly a man. I was 18 at the time. When I would mess up Jerry would scold me and say "Mo whats wrong with you boy" then teach me the right way to do things. He was more like a big brother.

I stayed in and went on to many great assignments and schools because Jerry gave the early guidance and structure I needed. Jerry was killed in Iraq on 11/23 2003. In 2004 after being out for 16 years re-enlisted and went to Iraq because it was the right thing to do and because I wanted to show Jerry that he taught me right. I believe he was looking down from above with the big Ranger keeping me safe.

I miss my friend and just wanted to share this with my fellow Rangers. RLTW

...since the last snows of spring, I've been camping with my dog, Noah, all around CFM...from FS 80 to Cooper Gap, along FS 42 to Winding Stair and down FS 77 back to Lower Mountaineeing...

...slowly I found out that there's not a definitive idea of where the camp stops and the national forest began...so I had my chance to find out this past Sunday morning...

...a calm voice said, "you can't camp here"...I had watched a documentary on Iwo Jima til 5:30 that morning so I was sleeping when the voice spoke...

...as I turned over I said, "are you sure?"...completely non smart-ass in tone...

...realizing it was the Camp Commander, walking stick in hand, when I did look to see who it was, so I could continue with, "because I wanted to find out where the camp ends and the national forest begins", the Lt Col said, "I'm positive...and you can be barred from other places on Camp as well"...

..."my part of "because" never got out...for he walked away as he had approached...

...mountain bikers are all over the camp...civilians use the facilities without question...and all I wanted to know is where could I camp so as not to be in your way...as MSG Bulloch, S3 NCO, can verify since only a few days before I had asked him for a basic idea of where the students will be so I can be elsewhere...

...maybe a letter of recommendation from my one, two or three star general friends can attest to my character as not being a liability to the security of the mission of CFM...or maybe the Camp Commander is not a warm, fuzzy guy...but...

...I still don't know the answer, as I sit atop Hawk Mountain, above the commo tent, while an ambush is going over at Winding Stair...trying to not let a former PI of RN1R33N become a threat to the mission...

...so does anyone know?...I'd sincerely appreciate knowing since some individuals are pretty close to being snubbed on my Christmas Card list if I get another moment like I had last Sunday...

Each of us has in some way contributed to the freedom we enjoy as Americans.

I am continually impressed by the caliber of service men and women we are seeing today. Never miss the opportunity to thank them.

God Bless America.

RLTW

Visitation will be at Bannister Funeral Home in Dahlonega from 1700hrs to 2000hrs on Tuesday 5 Oct 2010

Funeral Services will be Wednesday 6 October at 1100hrs also at Bannister Funeral Home with interment at Alta Vista Cemetery in Gainesville, Georgia

There will be a special seating section reserved for Rangers during the funeral services.

Each of us who knew Whip will miss him and cherish his memory and service to our nation. I did not know until recently that SGM Wilson was the first Sergeant Major assigned to the Mountain Ranger Camp back in the 1960's. He was also one of the Army's first E-9 Sergeants Major.