20 Dec 03

Comments on current history from a friend in the Philippines:

"Recent history has proven once again that, despite the advent of cutting-edge, siege weaponry, like bombers, missiles, and unmanned drones, r igorous ground campaigns are still nonnegotiable requirements. Rough men still have to physically assault physical objectives, and these men still have to be skill ed, armed, and personally committed if they are to seize, maintain, and hold thi s ground. The desperate, continuing armed conflict in 'Postwar' Iraq should shock this 'revelation' into our veins."

Comment: The veins of those who naively think there is a technological substitute for personal tenacity and icy determination, engendered by person al patriotism, should be particularly shocked.

"With a ghastly casualness, we remove the organ and then demand the function . We make men without integrity, and expect of them virtue and enterprise. We laugh at honor, and are then shocked to find traitors in our midst. We castrate, and bid the geldings be fruitful." CS Lewis

/John

20 Dec 03

On fashion, from a female LEO and colleague:

"John, I can remain silent no longer! Fashion doesn't dictate readiness. Readiness dictates fashion.

As you well know, for us, the ability to respond with deadly force is a continuous requirement, not an 'option.' I have to be heavily armed all the time. My 'work dress' ranges from jeans, T-shirt, and a cover garment, to business suits for staff meetings, to dresses for court appearances. For me, concealment is critical, because I don't have the option of leaving my gun(s ) behind.

No circumstance will preclude me from carrying! Choose the handgun, then th e holster, access the circumstances, and lastly select the clothing. Make it work!"

Comment: I dare not!

/John