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Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Twas the night before Christmas
He lived all alone In a one bedroom house made of Plaster and Stone I had come down the Chimney With presents to give. And to see just who In this home did live. I looked all about A strange sight I did see. No tinsel, No presents, Not even a tree. No stocking by the mantle, Just boots filled with sand. On the wall hung pictures Of far distant lands. With medals and badges, Awards of all kinds, A sober thought Came through my mind. For this house was different, It was dark and dreary, I found the home of a soldier, Once I could see clearly. The soldier lay sleeping, Silent, alone, Curled up on the floor In this one bedroom home. The face was so gentle, The room in such disorder, Not how I pictured A United States Soldier. Was this the hero Of whom I'd just read? Curled up on a Poncho, The floor for a bed? I realized the families That I saw this night, Owed their lives to these soldiers Who were willing to fight. Soon round the world, The children would play, And grownup would celebrate A bright Christmas Day. They all enjoyed freedom Each month of the year, Because of the soldiers, Like the one lying here. I couldn't help wonder How many lay alone, On a cold Christmas Eve In a land far from home. The very thought Brought a tear to my eye, I dropped to my knees And started to Cry. The soldier awakened And I heard a rough voice, "Santa don't cry, This life is my choice." The solider rolled over And drifted to sleep, I couldn't control it, I continued to weep. I kept watch for hours, So silent and still And we both shivered >From the cold nights chill. I didn't want to leave On that cold, dark, night, This guardian of Honor So willing to fight. The solider rolled over, With a voice soft and pure, Whispered, "Carry on Santa, It's Christmas Day, All is secure." One look at my watch, And I knew he was right. "Merry Christmas my friend, And to all a good night." |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your
military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). That really sucks. http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ Dave Milne, Scotland "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > Twas the night before Christmas > He lived all alone > In a one bedroom house made of > Plaster and Stone > I had come down the Chimney > With presents to give. > And to see just who > In this home did live. > I looked all about > A strange sight I did see. > No tinsel, No presents, > Not even a tree. > No stocking by the mantle, > Just boots filled with sand. > On the wall hung pictures > Of far distant lands. > With medals and badges, > Awards of all kinds, > A sober thought > Came through my mind. > For this house was different, > It was dark and dreary, > I found the home of a soldier, > Once I could see clearly. > The soldier lay sleeping, > Silent, alone, > Curled up on the floor > In this one bedroom home. > The face was so gentle, > The room in such disorder, > Not how I pictured > A United States Soldier. > Was this the hero > Of whom I'd just read? > Curled up on a Poncho, > The floor for a bed? > I realized the families > That I saw this night, > Owed their lives to these soldiers > Who were willing to fight. > Soon round the world, > The children would play, > And grownup would celebrate > A bright Christmas Day. > They all enjoyed freedom > Each month of the year, > Because of the soldiers, > Like the one lying here. > I couldn't help wonder > How many lay alone, > On a cold Christmas Eve > In a land far from home. > The very thought > Brought a tear to my eye, > I dropped to my knees > And started to Cry. > The soldier awakened > And I heard a rough voice, > "Santa don't cry, > This life is my choice." > The solider rolled over > And drifted to sleep, > I couldn't control it, > I continued to weep. > I kept watch for hours, > So silent and still > And we both shivered > >From the cold nights chill. > I didn't want to leave > On that cold, dark, night, > This guardian of Honor > So willing to fight. > The solider rolled over, > With a voice soft and pure, > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > One look at my watch, > And I knew he was right. > "Merry Christmas my friend, > And to all a good night." |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your
military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). That really sucks. http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ Dave Milne, Scotland "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > Twas the night before Christmas > He lived all alone > In a one bedroom house made of > Plaster and Stone > I had come down the Chimney > With presents to give. > And to see just who > In this home did live. > I looked all about > A strange sight I did see. > No tinsel, No presents, > Not even a tree. > No stocking by the mantle, > Just boots filled with sand. > On the wall hung pictures > Of far distant lands. > With medals and badges, > Awards of all kinds, > A sober thought > Came through my mind. > For this house was different, > It was dark and dreary, > I found the home of a soldier, > Once I could see clearly. > The soldier lay sleeping, > Silent, alone, > Curled up on the floor > In this one bedroom home. > The face was so gentle, > The room in such disorder, > Not how I pictured > A United States Soldier. > Was this the hero > Of whom I'd just read? > Curled up on a Poncho, > The floor for a bed? > I realized the families > That I saw this night, > Owed their lives to these soldiers > Who were willing to fight. > Soon round the world, > The children would play, > And grownup would celebrate > A bright Christmas Day. > They all enjoyed freedom > Each month of the year, > Because of the soldiers, > Like the one lying here. > I couldn't help wonder > How many lay alone, > On a cold Christmas Eve > In a land far from home. > The very thought > Brought a tear to my eye, > I dropped to my knees > And started to Cry. > The soldier awakened > And I heard a rough voice, > "Santa don't cry, > This life is my choice." > The solider rolled over > And drifted to sleep, > I couldn't control it, > I continued to weep. > I kept watch for hours, > So silent and still > And we both shivered > >From the cold nights chill. > I didn't want to leave > On that cold, dark, night, > This guardian of Honor > So willing to fight. > The solider rolled over, > With a voice soft and pure, > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > One look at my watch, > And I knew he was right. > "Merry Christmas my friend, > And to all a good night." |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your
military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). That really sucks. http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ Dave Milne, Scotland "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > Twas the night before Christmas > He lived all alone > In a one bedroom house made of > Plaster and Stone > I had come down the Chimney > With presents to give. > And to see just who > In this home did live. > I looked all about > A strange sight I did see. > No tinsel, No presents, > Not even a tree. > No stocking by the mantle, > Just boots filled with sand. > On the wall hung pictures > Of far distant lands. > With medals and badges, > Awards of all kinds, > A sober thought > Came through my mind. > For this house was different, > It was dark and dreary, > I found the home of a soldier, > Once I could see clearly. > The soldier lay sleeping, > Silent, alone, > Curled up on the floor > In this one bedroom home. > The face was so gentle, > The room in such disorder, > Not how I pictured > A United States Soldier. > Was this the hero > Of whom I'd just read? > Curled up on a Poncho, > The floor for a bed? > I realized the families > That I saw this night, > Owed their lives to these soldiers > Who were willing to fight. > Soon round the world, > The children would play, > And grownup would celebrate > A bright Christmas Day. > They all enjoyed freedom > Each month of the year, > Because of the soldiers, > Like the one lying here. > I couldn't help wonder > How many lay alone, > On a cold Christmas Eve > In a land far from home. > The very thought > Brought a tear to my eye, > I dropped to my knees > And started to Cry. > The soldier awakened > And I heard a rough voice, > "Santa don't cry, > This life is my choice." > The solider rolled over > And drifted to sleep, > I couldn't control it, > I continued to weep. > I kept watch for hours, > So silent and still > And we both shivered > >From the cold nights chill. > I didn't want to leave > On that cold, dark, night, > This guardian of Honor > So willing to fight. > The solider rolled over, > With a voice soft and pure, > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > One look at my watch, > And I knew he was right. > "Merry Christmas my friend, > And to all a good night." |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty
good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at Annapolis. My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be worth in the private sector. Dave Milne wrote: > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > That really sucks. > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > Twas the night before Christmas > > He lived all alone > > In a one bedroom house made of > > Plaster and Stone > > I had come down the Chimney > > With presents to give. > > And to see just who > > In this home did live. > > I looked all about > > A strange sight I did see. > > No tinsel, No presents, > > Not even a tree. > > No stocking by the mantle, > > Just boots filled with sand. > > On the wall hung pictures > > Of far distant lands. > > With medals and badges, > > Awards of all kinds, > > A sober thought > > Came through my mind. > > For this house was different, > > It was dark and dreary, > > I found the home of a soldier, > > Once I could see clearly. > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > Silent, alone, > > Curled up on the floor > > In this one bedroom home. > > The face was so gentle, > > The room in such disorder, > > Not how I pictured > > A United States Soldier. > > Was this the hero > > Of whom I'd just read? > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > The floor for a bed? > > I realized the families > > That I saw this night, > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > Who were willing to fight. > > Soon round the world, > > The children would play, > > And grownup would celebrate > > A bright Christmas Day. > > They all enjoyed freedom > > Each month of the year, > > Because of the soldiers, > > Like the one lying here. > > I couldn't help wonder > > How many lay alone, > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > In a land far from home. > > The very thought > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > I dropped to my knees > > And started to Cry. > > The soldier awakened > > And I heard a rough voice, > > "Santa don't cry, > > This life is my choice." > > The solider rolled over > > And drifted to sleep, > > I couldn't control it, > > I continued to weep. > > I kept watch for hours, > > So silent and still > > And we both shivered > > >From the cold nights chill. > > I didn't want to leave > > On that cold, dark, night, > > This guardian of Honor > > So willing to fight. > > The solider rolled over, > > With a voice soft and pure, > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > One look at my watch, > > And I knew he was right. > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > And to all a good night." |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty
good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at Annapolis. My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be worth in the private sector. Dave Milne wrote: > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > That really sucks. > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > Twas the night before Christmas > > He lived all alone > > In a one bedroom house made of > > Plaster and Stone > > I had come down the Chimney > > With presents to give. > > And to see just who > > In this home did live. > > I looked all about > > A strange sight I did see. > > No tinsel, No presents, > > Not even a tree. > > No stocking by the mantle, > > Just boots filled with sand. > > On the wall hung pictures > > Of far distant lands. > > With medals and badges, > > Awards of all kinds, > > A sober thought > > Came through my mind. > > For this house was different, > > It was dark and dreary, > > I found the home of a soldier, > > Once I could see clearly. > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > Silent, alone, > > Curled up on the floor > > In this one bedroom home. > > The face was so gentle, > > The room in such disorder, > > Not how I pictured > > A United States Soldier. > > Was this the hero > > Of whom I'd just read? > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > The floor for a bed? > > I realized the families > > That I saw this night, > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > Who were willing to fight. > > Soon round the world, > > The children would play, > > And grownup would celebrate > > A bright Christmas Day. > > They all enjoyed freedom > > Each month of the year, > > Because of the soldiers, > > Like the one lying here. > > I couldn't help wonder > > How many lay alone, > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > In a land far from home. > > The very thought > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > I dropped to my knees > > And started to Cry. > > The soldier awakened > > And I heard a rough voice, > > "Santa don't cry, > > This life is my choice." > > The solider rolled over > > And drifted to sleep, > > I couldn't control it, > > I continued to weep. > > I kept watch for hours, > > So silent and still > > And we both shivered > > >From the cold nights chill. > > I didn't want to leave > > On that cold, dark, night, > > This guardian of Honor > > So willing to fight. > > The solider rolled over, > > With a voice soft and pure, > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > One look at my watch, > > And I knew he was right. > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > And to all a good night." |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty
good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at Annapolis. My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be worth in the private sector. Dave Milne wrote: > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > That really sucks. > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > Twas the night before Christmas > > He lived all alone > > In a one bedroom house made of > > Plaster and Stone > > I had come down the Chimney > > With presents to give. > > And to see just who > > In this home did live. > > I looked all about > > A strange sight I did see. > > No tinsel, No presents, > > Not even a tree. > > No stocking by the mantle, > > Just boots filled with sand. > > On the wall hung pictures > > Of far distant lands. > > With medals and badges, > > Awards of all kinds, > > A sober thought > > Came through my mind. > > For this house was different, > > It was dark and dreary, > > I found the home of a soldier, > > Once I could see clearly. > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > Silent, alone, > > Curled up on the floor > > In this one bedroom home. > > The face was so gentle, > > The room in such disorder, > > Not how I pictured > > A United States Soldier. > > Was this the hero > > Of whom I'd just read? > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > The floor for a bed? > > I realized the families > > That I saw this night, > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > Who were willing to fight. > > Soon round the world, > > The children would play, > > And grownup would celebrate > > A bright Christmas Day. > > They all enjoyed freedom > > Each month of the year, > > Because of the soldiers, > > Like the one lying here. > > I couldn't help wonder > > How many lay alone, > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > In a land far from home. > > The very thought > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > I dropped to my knees > > And started to Cry. > > The soldier awakened > > And I heard a rough voice, > > "Santa don't cry, > > This life is my choice." > > The solider rolled over > > And drifted to sleep, > > I couldn't control it, > > I continued to weep. > > I kept watch for hours, > > So silent and still > > And we both shivered > > >From the cold nights chill. > > I didn't want to leave > > On that cold, dark, night, > > This guardian of Honor > > So willing to fight. > > The solider rolled over, > > With a voice soft and pure, > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > One look at my watch, > > And I knew he was right. > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > And to all a good night." |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and other
bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It turns out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't know.) What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? Earle "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > That really sucks. > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > Twas the night before Christmas > > He lived all alone > > In a one bedroom house made of > > Plaster and Stone > > I had come down the Chimney > > With presents to give. > > And to see just who > > In this home did live. > > I looked all about > > A strange sight I did see. > > No tinsel, No presents, > > Not even a tree. > > No stocking by the mantle, > > Just boots filled with sand. > > On the wall hung pictures > > Of far distant lands. > > With medals and badges, > > Awards of all kinds, > > A sober thought > > Came through my mind. > > For this house was different, > > It was dark and dreary, > > I found the home of a soldier, > > Once I could see clearly. > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > Silent, alone, > > Curled up on the floor > > In this one bedroom home. > > The face was so gentle, > > The room in such disorder, > > Not how I pictured > > A United States Soldier. > > Was this the hero > > Of whom I'd just read? > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > The floor for a bed? > > I realized the families > > That I saw this night, > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > Who were willing to fight. > > Soon round the world, > > The children would play, > > And grownup would celebrate > > A bright Christmas Day. > > They all enjoyed freedom > > Each month of the year, > > Because of the soldiers, > > Like the one lying here. > > I couldn't help wonder > > How many lay alone, > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > In a land far from home. > > The very thought > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > I dropped to my knees > > And started to Cry. > > The soldier awakened > > And I heard a rough voice, > > "Santa don't cry, > > This life is my choice." > > The solider rolled over > > And drifted to sleep, > > I couldn't control it, > > I continued to weep. > > I kept watch for hours, > > So silent and still > > And we both shivered > > >From the cold nights chill. > > I didn't want to leave > > On that cold, dark, night, > > This guardian of Honor > > So willing to fight. > > The solider rolled over, > > With a voice soft and pure, > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > One look at my watch, > > And I knew he was right. > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > And to all a good night." > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and other
bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It turns out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't know.) What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? Earle "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > That really sucks. > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > Twas the night before Christmas > > He lived all alone > > In a one bedroom house made of > > Plaster and Stone > > I had come down the Chimney > > With presents to give. > > And to see just who > > In this home did live. > > I looked all about > > A strange sight I did see. > > No tinsel, No presents, > > Not even a tree. > > No stocking by the mantle, > > Just boots filled with sand. > > On the wall hung pictures > > Of far distant lands. > > With medals and badges, > > Awards of all kinds, > > A sober thought > > Came through my mind. > > For this house was different, > > It was dark and dreary, > > I found the home of a soldier, > > Once I could see clearly. > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > Silent, alone, > > Curled up on the floor > > In this one bedroom home. > > The face was so gentle, > > The room in such disorder, > > Not how I pictured > > A United States Soldier. > > Was this the hero > > Of whom I'd just read? > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > The floor for a bed? > > I realized the families > > That I saw this night, > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > Who were willing to fight. > > Soon round the world, > > The children would play, > > And grownup would celebrate > > A bright Christmas Day. > > They all enjoyed freedom > > Each month of the year, > > Because of the soldiers, > > Like the one lying here. > > I couldn't help wonder > > How many lay alone, > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > In a land far from home. > > The very thought > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > I dropped to my knees > > And started to Cry. > > The soldier awakened > > And I heard a rough voice, > > "Santa don't cry, > > This life is my choice." > > The solider rolled over > > And drifted to sleep, > > I couldn't control it, > > I continued to weep. > > I kept watch for hours, > > So silent and still > > And we both shivered > > >From the cold nights chill. > > I didn't want to leave > > On that cold, dark, night, > > This guardian of Honor > > So willing to fight. > > The solider rolled over, > > With a voice soft and pure, > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > One look at my watch, > > And I knew he was right. > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > And to all a good night." > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and other
bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It turns out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't know.) What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? Earle "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > That really sucks. > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > Twas the night before Christmas > > He lived all alone > > In a one bedroom house made of > > Plaster and Stone > > I had come down the Chimney > > With presents to give. > > And to see just who > > In this home did live. > > I looked all about > > A strange sight I did see. > > No tinsel, No presents, > > Not even a tree. > > No stocking by the mantle, > > Just boots filled with sand. > > On the wall hung pictures > > Of far distant lands. > > With medals and badges, > > Awards of all kinds, > > A sober thought > > Came through my mind. > > For this house was different, > > It was dark and dreary, > > I found the home of a soldier, > > Once I could see clearly. > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > Silent, alone, > > Curled up on the floor > > In this one bedroom home. > > The face was so gentle, > > The room in such disorder, > > Not how I pictured > > A United States Soldier. > > Was this the hero > > Of whom I'd just read? > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > The floor for a bed? > > I realized the families > > That I saw this night, > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > Who were willing to fight. > > Soon round the world, > > The children would play, > > And grownup would celebrate > > A bright Christmas Day. > > They all enjoyed freedom > > Each month of the year, > > Because of the soldiers, > > Like the one lying here. > > I couldn't help wonder > > How many lay alone, > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > In a land far from home. > > The very thought > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > I dropped to my knees > > And started to Cry. > > The soldier awakened > > And I heard a rough voice, > > "Santa don't cry, > > This life is my choice." > > The solider rolled over > > And drifted to sleep, > > I couldn't control it, > > I continued to weep. > > I kept watch for hours, > > So silent and still > > And we both shivered > > >From the cold nights chill. > > I didn't want to leave > > On that cold, dark, night, > > This guardian of Honor > > So willing to fight. > > The solider rolled over, > > With a voice soft and pure, > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > One look at my watch, > > And I knew he was right. > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > And to all a good night." > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a couple
of thousand bucks a year. Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white with a significant number from Scotland. Dave Milne, Scotland "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and other > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It turns > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't > know.) > > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? > > Earle > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > (8 > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > That really sucks. > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > > Twas the night before Christmas > > > He lived all alone > > > In a one bedroom house made of > > > Plaster and Stone > > > I had come down the Chimney > > > With presents to give. > > > And to see just who > > > In this home did live. > > > I looked all about > > > A strange sight I did see. > > > No tinsel, No presents, > > > Not even a tree. > > > No stocking by the mantle, > > > Just boots filled with sand. > > > On the wall hung pictures > > > Of far distant lands. > > > With medals and badges, > > > Awards of all kinds, > > > A sober thought > > > Came through my mind. > > > For this house was different, > > > It was dark and dreary, > > > I found the home of a soldier, > > > Once I could see clearly. > > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > > Silent, alone, > > > Curled up on the floor > > > In this one bedroom home. > > > The face was so gentle, > > > The room in such disorder, > > > Not how I pictured > > > A United States Soldier. > > > Was this the hero > > > Of whom I'd just read? > > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > > The floor for a bed? > > > I realized the families > > > That I saw this night, > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > > Who were willing to fight. > > > Soon round the world, > > > The children would play, > > > And grownup would celebrate > > > A bright Christmas Day. > > > They all enjoyed freedom > > > Each month of the year, > > > Because of the soldiers, > > > Like the one lying here. > > > I couldn't help wonder > > > How many lay alone, > > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > > In a land far from home. > > > The very thought > > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > > I dropped to my knees > > > And started to Cry. > > > The soldier awakened > > > And I heard a rough voice, > > > "Santa don't cry, > > > This life is my choice." > > > The solider rolled over > > > And drifted to sleep, > > > I couldn't control it, > > > I continued to weep. > > > I kept watch for hours, > > > So silent and still > > > And we both shivered > > > >From the cold nights chill. > > > I didn't want to leave > > > On that cold, dark, night, > > > This guardian of Honor > > > So willing to fight. > > > The solider rolled over, > > > With a voice soft and pure, > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > > One look at my watch, > > > And I knew he was right. > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > > And to all a good night." > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a couple
of thousand bucks a year. Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white with a significant number from Scotland. Dave Milne, Scotland "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and other > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It turns > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't > know.) > > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? > > Earle > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > (8 > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > That really sucks. > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > > Twas the night before Christmas > > > He lived all alone > > > In a one bedroom house made of > > > Plaster and Stone > > > I had come down the Chimney > > > With presents to give. > > > And to see just who > > > In this home did live. > > > I looked all about > > > A strange sight I did see. > > > No tinsel, No presents, > > > Not even a tree. > > > No stocking by the mantle, > > > Just boots filled with sand. > > > On the wall hung pictures > > > Of far distant lands. > > > With medals and badges, > > > Awards of all kinds, > > > A sober thought > > > Came through my mind. > > > For this house was different, > > > It was dark and dreary, > > > I found the home of a soldier, > > > Once I could see clearly. > > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > > Silent, alone, > > > Curled up on the floor > > > In this one bedroom home. > > > The face was so gentle, > > > The room in such disorder, > > > Not how I pictured > > > A United States Soldier. > > > Was this the hero > > > Of whom I'd just read? > > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > > The floor for a bed? > > > I realized the families > > > That I saw this night, > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > > Who were willing to fight. > > > Soon round the world, > > > The children would play, > > > And grownup would celebrate > > > A bright Christmas Day. > > > They all enjoyed freedom > > > Each month of the year, > > > Because of the soldiers, > > > Like the one lying here. > > > I couldn't help wonder > > > How many lay alone, > > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > > In a land far from home. > > > The very thought > > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > > I dropped to my knees > > > And started to Cry. > > > The soldier awakened > > > And I heard a rough voice, > > > "Santa don't cry, > > > This life is my choice." > > > The solider rolled over > > > And drifted to sleep, > > > I couldn't control it, > > > I continued to weep. > > > I kept watch for hours, > > > So silent and still > > > And we both shivered > > > >From the cold nights chill. > > > I didn't want to leave > > > On that cold, dark, night, > > > This guardian of Honor > > > So willing to fight. > > > The solider rolled over, > > > With a voice soft and pure, > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > > One look at my watch, > > > And I knew he was right. > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > > And to all a good night." > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a couple
of thousand bucks a year. Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white with a significant number from Scotland. Dave Milne, Scotland "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and other > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It turns > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't > know.) > > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? > > Earle > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > (8 > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > That really sucks. > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > > Twas the night before Christmas > > > He lived all alone > > > In a one bedroom house made of > > > Plaster and Stone > > > I had come down the Chimney > > > With presents to give. > > > And to see just who > > > In this home did live. > > > I looked all about > > > A strange sight I did see. > > > No tinsel, No presents, > > > Not even a tree. > > > No stocking by the mantle, > > > Just boots filled with sand. > > > On the wall hung pictures > > > Of far distant lands. > > > With medals and badges, > > > Awards of all kinds, > > > A sober thought > > > Came through my mind. > > > For this house was different, > > > It was dark and dreary, > > > I found the home of a soldier, > > > Once I could see clearly. > > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > > Silent, alone, > > > Curled up on the floor > > > In this one bedroom home. > > > The face was so gentle, > > > The room in such disorder, > > > Not how I pictured > > > A United States Soldier. > > > Was this the hero > > > Of whom I'd just read? > > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > > The floor for a bed? > > > I realized the families > > > That I saw this night, > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > > Who were willing to fight. > > > Soon round the world, > > > The children would play, > > > And grownup would celebrate > > > A bright Christmas Day. > > > They all enjoyed freedom > > > Each month of the year, > > > Because of the soldiers, > > > Like the one lying here. > > > I couldn't help wonder > > > How many lay alone, > > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > > In a land far from home. > > > The very thought > > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > > I dropped to my knees > > > And started to Cry. > > > The soldier awakened > > > And I heard a rough voice, > > > "Santa don't cry, > > > This life is my choice." > > > The solider rolled over > > > And drifted to sleep, > > > I couldn't control it, > > > I continued to weep. > > > I kept watch for hours, > > > So silent and still > > > And we both shivered > > > >From the cold nights chill. > > > I didn't want to leave > > > On that cold, dark, night, > > > This guardian of Honor > > > So willing to fight. > > > The solider rolled over, > > > With a voice soft and pure, > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > > One look at my watch, > > > And I knew he was right. > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > > And to all a good night." > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Apparently 99% white.
Dave "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message news:FhYkh.22459$k74.16263@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a couple > of thousand bucks a year. > Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white > with a significant number from Scotland. > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message > news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and > other > > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an > > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. > > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La > > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, > > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It > turns > > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are > > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't > > know.) > > > > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? > > > > Earle > > > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > > (8 > > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > > That really sucks. > > > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > > > Twas the night before Christmas > > > > He lived all alone > > > > In a one bedroom house made of > > > > Plaster and Stone > > > > I had come down the Chimney > > > > With presents to give. > > > > And to see just who > > > > In this home did live. > > > > I looked all about > > > > A strange sight I did see. > > > > No tinsel, No presents, > > > > Not even a tree. > > > > No stocking by the mantle, > > > > Just boots filled with sand. > > > > On the wall hung pictures > > > > Of far distant lands. > > > > With medals and badges, > > > > Awards of all kinds, > > > > A sober thought > > > > Came through my mind. > > > > For this house was different, > > > > It was dark and dreary, > > > > I found the home of a soldier, > > > > Once I could see clearly. > > > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > > > Silent, alone, > > > > Curled up on the floor > > > > In this one bedroom home. > > > > The face was so gentle, > > > > The room in such disorder, > > > > Not how I pictured > > > > A United States Soldier. > > > > Was this the hero > > > > Of whom I'd just read? > > > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > > > The floor for a bed? > > > > I realized the families > > > > That I saw this night, > > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > > > Who were willing to fight. > > > > Soon round the world, > > > > The children would play, > > > > And grownup would celebrate > > > > A bright Christmas Day. > > > > They all enjoyed freedom > > > > Each month of the year, > > > > Because of the soldiers, > > > > Like the one lying here. > > > > I couldn't help wonder > > > > How many lay alone, > > > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > > > In a land far from home. > > > > The very thought > > > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > > > I dropped to my knees > > > > And started to Cry. > > > > The soldier awakened > > > > And I heard a rough voice, > > > > "Santa don't cry, > > > > This life is my choice." > > > > The solider rolled over > > > > And drifted to sleep, > > > > I couldn't control it, > > > > I continued to weep. > > > > I kept watch for hours, > > > > So silent and still > > > > And we both shivered > > > > >From the cold nights chill. > > > > I didn't want to leave > > > > On that cold, dark, night, > > > > This guardian of Honor > > > > So willing to fight. > > > > The solider rolled over, > > > > With a voice soft and pure, > > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > > > One look at my watch, > > > > And I knew he was right. > > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > > > And to all a good night." > > > > > > > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Apparently 99% white.
Dave "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message news:FhYkh.22459$k74.16263@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a couple > of thousand bucks a year. > Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white > with a significant number from Scotland. > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message > news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and > other > > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an > > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. > > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La > > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, > > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It > turns > > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are > > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't > > know.) > > > > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? > > > > Earle > > > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > > (8 > > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > > That really sucks. > > > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > > > Twas the night before Christmas > > > > He lived all alone > > > > In a one bedroom house made of > > > > Plaster and Stone > > > > I had come down the Chimney > > > > With presents to give. > > > > And to see just who > > > > In this home did live. > > > > I looked all about > > > > A strange sight I did see. > > > > No tinsel, No presents, > > > > Not even a tree. > > > > No stocking by the mantle, > > > > Just boots filled with sand. > > > > On the wall hung pictures > > > > Of far distant lands. > > > > With medals and badges, > > > > Awards of all kinds, > > > > A sober thought > > > > Came through my mind. > > > > For this house was different, > > > > It was dark and dreary, > > > > I found the home of a soldier, > > > > Once I could see clearly. > > > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > > > Silent, alone, > > > > Curled up on the floor > > > > In this one bedroom home. > > > > The face was so gentle, > > > > The room in such disorder, > > > > Not how I pictured > > > > A United States Soldier. > > > > Was this the hero > > > > Of whom I'd just read? > > > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > > > The floor for a bed? > > > > I realized the families > > > > That I saw this night, > > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > > > Who were willing to fight. > > > > Soon round the world, > > > > The children would play, > > > > And grownup would celebrate > > > > A bright Christmas Day. > > > > They all enjoyed freedom > > > > Each month of the year, > > > > Because of the soldiers, > > > > Like the one lying here. > > > > I couldn't help wonder > > > > How many lay alone, > > > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > > > In a land far from home. > > > > The very thought > > > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > > > I dropped to my knees > > > > And started to Cry. > > > > The soldier awakened > > > > And I heard a rough voice, > > > > "Santa don't cry, > > > > This life is my choice." > > > > The solider rolled over > > > > And drifted to sleep, > > > > I couldn't control it, > > > > I continued to weep. > > > > I kept watch for hours, > > > > So silent and still > > > > And we both shivered > > > > >From the cold nights chill. > > > > I didn't want to leave > > > > On that cold, dark, night, > > > > This guardian of Honor > > > > So willing to fight. > > > > The solider rolled over, > > > > With a voice soft and pure, > > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > > > One look at my watch, > > > > And I knew he was right. > > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > > > And to all a good night." > > > > > > > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Apparently 99% white.
Dave "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message news:FhYkh.22459$k74.16263@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a couple > of thousand bucks a year. > Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white > with a significant number from Scotland. > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message > news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and > other > > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an > > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. > > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La > > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, > > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It > turns > > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are > > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't > > know.) > > > > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? > > > > Earle > > > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > > (8 > > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > > That really sucks. > > > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > > > Twas the night before Christmas > > > > He lived all alone > > > > In a one bedroom house made of > > > > Plaster and Stone > > > > I had come down the Chimney > > > > With presents to give. > > > > And to see just who > > > > In this home did live. > > > > I looked all about > > > > A strange sight I did see. > > > > No tinsel, No presents, > > > > Not even a tree. > > > > No stocking by the mantle, > > > > Just boots filled with sand. > > > > On the wall hung pictures > > > > Of far distant lands. > > > > With medals and badges, > > > > Awards of all kinds, > > > > A sober thought > > > > Came through my mind. > > > > For this house was different, > > > > It was dark and dreary, > > > > I found the home of a soldier, > > > > Once I could see clearly. > > > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > > > Silent, alone, > > > > Curled up on the floor > > > > In this one bedroom home. > > > > The face was so gentle, > > > > The room in such disorder, > > > > Not how I pictured > > > > A United States Soldier. > > > > Was this the hero > > > > Of whom I'd just read? > > > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > > > The floor for a bed? > > > > I realized the families > > > > That I saw this night, > > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > > > Who were willing to fight. > > > > Soon round the world, > > > > The children would play, > > > > And grownup would celebrate > > > > A bright Christmas Day. > > > > They all enjoyed freedom > > > > Each month of the year, > > > > Because of the soldiers, > > > > Like the one lying here. > > > > I couldn't help wonder > > > > How many lay alone, > > > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > > > In a land far from home. > > > > The very thought > > > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > > > I dropped to my knees > > > > And started to Cry. > > > > The soldier awakened > > > > And I heard a rough voice, > > > > "Santa don't cry, > > > > This life is my choice." > > > > The solider rolled over > > > > And drifted to sleep, > > > > I couldn't control it, > > > > I continued to weep. > > > > I kept watch for hours, > > > > So silent and still > > > > And we both shivered > > > > >From the cold nights chill. > > > > I didn't want to leave > > > > On that cold, dark, night, > > > > This guardian of Honor > > > > So willing to fight. > > > > The solider rolled over, > > > > With a voice soft and pure, > > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > > > One look at my watch, > > > > And I knew he was right. > > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > > > And to all a good night." > > > > > > > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
"Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message
news:FhYkh.22459$k74.16263@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a > couple of thousand bucks a year. Well it's different here, although state universities are pretty cheap for state residents. > Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white > with a significant number from Scotland. Well there you go. White lives are worth more than colored ones. Earle > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message > news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and > other > > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an > > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. > > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La > > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, > > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It > turns > > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are > > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't > > know.) > > > > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? > > > > Earle > > > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > > (8 > > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > > That really sucks. > > > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > > > Twas the night before Christmas > > > > He lived all alone > > > > In a one bedroom house made of > > > > Plaster and Stone > > > > I had come down the Chimney > > > > With presents to give. > > > > And to see just who > > > > In this home did live. > > > > I looked all about > > > > A strange sight I did see. > > > > No tinsel, No presents, > > > > Not even a tree. > > > > No stocking by the mantle, > > > > Just boots filled with sand. > > > > On the wall hung pictures > > > > Of far distant lands. > > > > With medals and badges, > > > > Awards of all kinds, > > > > A sober thought > > > > Came through my mind. > > > > For this house was different, > > > > It was dark and dreary, > > > > I found the home of a soldier, > > > > Once I could see clearly. > > > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > > > Silent, alone, > > > > Curled up on the floor > > > > In this one bedroom home. > > > > The face was so gentle, > > > > The room in such disorder, > > > > Not how I pictured > > > > A United States Soldier. > > > > Was this the hero > > > > Of whom I'd just read? > > > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > > > The floor for a bed? > > > > I realized the families > > > > That I saw this night, > > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > > > Who were willing to fight. > > > > Soon round the world, > > > > The children would play, > > > > And grownup would celebrate > > > > A bright Christmas Day. > > > > They all enjoyed freedom > > > > Each month of the year, > > > > Because of the soldiers, > > > > Like the one lying here. > > > > I couldn't help wonder > > > > How many lay alone, > > > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > > > In a land far from home. > > > > The very thought > > > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > > > I dropped to my knees > > > > And started to Cry. > > > > The soldier awakened > > > > And I heard a rough voice, > > > > "Santa don't cry, > > > > This life is my choice." > > > > The solider rolled over > > > > And drifted to sleep, > > > > I couldn't control it, > > > > I continued to weep. > > > > I kept watch for hours, > > > > So silent and still > > > > And we both shivered > > > > >From the cold nights chill. > > > > I didn't want to leave > > > > On that cold, dark, night, > > > > This guardian of Honor > > > > So willing to fight. > > > > The solider rolled over, > > > > With a voice soft and pure, > > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > > > One look at my watch, > > > > And I knew he was right. > > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > > > And to all a good night." > > > > > > > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
"Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message
news:FhYkh.22459$k74.16263@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a > couple of thousand bucks a year. Well it's different here, although state universities are pretty cheap for state residents. > Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white > with a significant number from Scotland. Well there you go. White lives are worth more than colored ones. Earle > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message > news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and > other > > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an > > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. > > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La > > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, > > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It > turns > > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are > > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't > > know.) > > > > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? > > > > Earle > > > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > > (8 > > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > > That really sucks. > > > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > > > Twas the night before Christmas > > > > He lived all alone > > > > In a one bedroom house made of > > > > Plaster and Stone > > > > I had come down the Chimney > > > > With presents to give. > > > > And to see just who > > > > In this home did live. > > > > I looked all about > > > > A strange sight I did see. > > > > No tinsel, No presents, > > > > Not even a tree. > > > > No stocking by the mantle, > > > > Just boots filled with sand. > > > > On the wall hung pictures > > > > Of far distant lands. > > > > With medals and badges, > > > > Awards of all kinds, > > > > A sober thought > > > > Came through my mind. > > > > For this house was different, > > > > It was dark and dreary, > > > > I found the home of a soldier, > > > > Once I could see clearly. > > > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > > > Silent, alone, > > > > Curled up on the floor > > > > In this one bedroom home. > > > > The face was so gentle, > > > > The room in such disorder, > > > > Not how I pictured > > > > A United States Soldier. > > > > Was this the hero > > > > Of whom I'd just read? > > > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > > > The floor for a bed? > > > > I realized the families > > > > That I saw this night, > > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > > > Who were willing to fight. > > > > Soon round the world, > > > > The children would play, > > > > And grownup would celebrate > > > > A bright Christmas Day. > > > > They all enjoyed freedom > > > > Each month of the year, > > > > Because of the soldiers, > > > > Like the one lying here. > > > > I couldn't help wonder > > > > How many lay alone, > > > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > > > In a land far from home. > > > > The very thought > > > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > > > I dropped to my knees > > > > And started to Cry. > > > > The soldier awakened > > > > And I heard a rough voice, > > > > "Santa don't cry, > > > > This life is my choice." > > > > The solider rolled over > > > > And drifted to sleep, > > > > I couldn't control it, > > > > I continued to weep. > > > > I kept watch for hours, > > > > So silent and still > > > > And we both shivered > > > > >From the cold nights chill. > > > > I didn't want to leave > > > > On that cold, dark, night, > > > > This guardian of Honor > > > > So willing to fight. > > > > The solider rolled over, > > > > With a voice soft and pure, > > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > > > One look at my watch, > > > > And I knew he was right. > > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > > > And to all a good night." > > > > > > > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
"Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message
news:FhYkh.22459$k74.16263@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a > couple of thousand bucks a year. Well it's different here, although state universities are pretty cheap for state residents. > Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white > with a significant number from Scotland. Well there you go. White lives are worth more than colored ones. Earle > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message > news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and > other > > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an > > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military personnel. > > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La > > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish reasons, > > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It > turns > > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and are > > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't > > know.) > > > > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? > > > > Earle > > > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > > (8 > > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > > That really sucks. > > > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > > > > Twas the night before Christmas > > > > He lived all alone > > > > In a one bedroom house made of > > > > Plaster and Stone > > > > I had come down the Chimney > > > > With presents to give. > > > > And to see just who > > > > In this home did live. > > > > I looked all about > > > > A strange sight I did see. > > > > No tinsel, No presents, > > > > Not even a tree. > > > > No stocking by the mantle, > > > > Just boots filled with sand. > > > > On the wall hung pictures > > > > Of far distant lands. > > > > With medals and badges, > > > > Awards of all kinds, > > > > A sober thought > > > > Came through my mind. > > > > For this house was different, > > > > It was dark and dreary, > > > > I found the home of a soldier, > > > > Once I could see clearly. > > > > The soldier lay sleeping, > > > > Silent, alone, > > > > Curled up on the floor > > > > In this one bedroom home. > > > > The face was so gentle, > > > > The room in such disorder, > > > > Not how I pictured > > > > A United States Soldier. > > > > Was this the hero > > > > Of whom I'd just read? > > > > Curled up on a Poncho, > > > > The floor for a bed? > > > > I realized the families > > > > That I saw this night, > > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers > > > > Who were willing to fight. > > > > Soon round the world, > > > > The children would play, > > > > And grownup would celebrate > > > > A bright Christmas Day. > > > > They all enjoyed freedom > > > > Each month of the year, > > > > Because of the soldiers, > > > > Like the one lying here. > > > > I couldn't help wonder > > > > How many lay alone, > > > > On a cold Christmas Eve > > > > In a land far from home. > > > > The very thought > > > > Brought a tear to my eye, > > > > I dropped to my knees > > > > And started to Cry. > > > > The soldier awakened > > > > And I heard a rough voice, > > > > "Santa don't cry, > > > > This life is my choice." > > > > The solider rolled over > > > > And drifted to sleep, > > > > I couldn't control it, > > > > I continued to weep. > > > > I kept watch for hours, > > > > So silent and still > > > > And we both shivered > > > > >From the cold nights chill. > > > > I didn't want to leave > > > > On that cold, dark, night, > > > > This guardian of Honor > > > > So willing to fight. > > > > The solider rolled over, > > > > With a voice soft and pure, > > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > > > > One look at my watch, > > > > And I knew he was right. > > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, > > > > And to all a good night." > > > > > > > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
On Mon, 25 Dec 2006 23:15:23 -0800, L.W.(Bill) ------ III wrote:
A U.S. military 'at its breaking point' considers foreign recruits By BryanBender The Boston Globe Tuesday, December 26, 2006 WASHINGTON The armed forces, already struggling to meet recruiting goals, are considering expanding the number of noncitizens in the ranks - including disputed proposals to open recruiting stations overseas and put more immigrants on a faster track to U.S. citizenship if they volunteer - according to Pentagon officials. Foreign citizens' serving in the U.S. military is a highly charged issue, which could expose the Pentagon to criticism that it is essentially using mercenaries to defend the country. Other analysts voice concern that a large contingent of noncitizens under arms could jeopardize national security or reflect badly on Americans' willingness to serve in uniform. The idea of signing up residents who are seeking U.S. citizenship is gaining traction as a way to address a critical need for the Pentagon, while fully absorbing some of the roughly one million immigrants that enter the United States legally each year. The proposal to induct more noncitizens, which is still largely on the drawing board, has to clear a number of hurdles. So far, the Pentagon has been quiet about specifics, like who would be eligible to join, where the recruiting stations would be, and what the minimum standards might involve, like English proficiency. In the meantime, the Pentagon and the immigration authorities have expanded a program that accelerates citizenship for legal residents who volunteer for the military. Since the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the number of immigrants in uniform who have become U.S. citizens has increased from 750 in 2001 to almost 4,600 last year, according to military statistics. With severe manpower strains because of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and a mandate to expand the overall size of the military, the Pentagon is under pressure to consider a variety of proposals involving foreign recruits, according to a military affairs analyst. "It works as a military idea and it works in the context of American immigration," said Thomas Donnelly, a military scholar at the conservative American Enterprise Institute in Washington and a leading proponent of recruiting more foreigners to serve in the military. As the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan grind on, the Pentagon has warned Congress and the White House that the military is stretched "to the breaking point." Both President George W. Bush and Robert Gates, his new defense secretary, have acknowledged that the total size of the military must be expanded to help alleviate the strain on ground troops, many of whom have been deployed repeatedly in combat theaters. Bush said last week that he had ordered Gates to come up with a plan for the first significant increase in ground forces since the end of the Cold War. That has led Pentagon officials to consider casting a wider net for noncitizens who are already in the United States, said Lieutenant Colonel Bryan Hilferty, an army spokesman. Already, the army and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement division of the Department of Homeland Security have "made it easier for green-card holders who do enlist to get their citizenship," Hilferty said. Other army officials, who asked not to be identified, said personnel officials were working with Congress and other parts of the government to test the feasibility of going beyond U.S. borders to recruit soldiers and marines. Currently, Pentagon policy stipulates that only immigrants legally residing in the United States are eligible to enlist. There are currently about 30,000 noncitizens who serve in the U.S. armed forces, making up about 2 percent of the active- duty force, according to statistics from the military and the Council on Foreign Relations. About 100 such noncitizens have died in Iraq and Afghanistan. A recent change in U.S. law, however, gave the Pentagon authority to bring immigrants to the United States if it determines it is vital to national security. So far, the Pentagon has not taken advantage of it, but the calls are growing to use this new authority. Indeed, some top military thinkers believe the United States should go as far as targeting foreigners in their native countries. "It's a little dramatic," said Michael O'Hanlon, a military specialist at the nonpartisan Brookings Institution and another supporter of the proposal. "But if you don't get some new idea how to do this, we will not be able to achieve an increase" in the size of the armed forces. "We have already done the standard things to recruit new soldiers, including using more recruiters and new advertising campaigns," O'Hanlon added. O'Hanlon and others noted that the country has relied before on sizable numbers of noncitizens to serve in the military - in the Revolutionary War, for example, German and French soldiers served alongside the colonists, and locals were recruited into U.S. ranks to fight insurgents in the Philippines. Other nations have recruited foreign citizens: In France, the famed Foreign Legion relies on about 8,000 noncitizens; Nepalese Gurkhas have fought and died with British Army forces for two centuries; and the Swiss Guard, which protects the Vatican, consists of troops who hail from many nations. "It is not without historical precedent," Donnelly said. Still, to some military officials and civil rights groups, relying on a large number of foreigners to serve in the military is offensive. A Hispanic rights advocacy group, National Council of La Raza, has said that the plan sends the wrong message that Americans themselves are not willing to sacrifice to defend their country. Officials have also raised concerns that immigrants would be disproportionately sent to the front lines as "cannon fodder" in any conflict. Some within the army privately express concern that a big push to recruit noncitizens would smack of "the decline of the American empire," said one army official who asked not to be identified. |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
On Mon, 25 Dec 2006 23:15:23 -0800, L.W.(Bill) ------ III wrote:
A U.S. military 'at its breaking point' considers foreign recruits By BryanBender The Boston Globe Tuesday, December 26, 2006 WASHINGTON The armed forces, already struggling to meet recruiting goals, are considering expanding the number of noncitizens in the ranks - including disputed proposals to open recruiting stations overseas and put more immigrants on a faster track to U.S. citizenship if they volunteer - according to Pentagon officials. Foreign citizens' serving in the U.S. military is a highly charged issue, which could expose the Pentagon to criticism that it is essentially using mercenaries to defend the country. Other analysts voice concern that a large contingent of noncitizens under arms could jeopardize national security or reflect badly on Americans' willingness to serve in uniform. The idea of signing up residents who are seeking U.S. citizenship is gaining traction as a way to address a critical need for the Pentagon, while fully absorbing some of the roughly one million immigrants that enter the United States legally each year. The proposal to induct more noncitizens, which is still largely on the drawing board, has to clear a number of hurdles. So far, the Pentagon has been quiet about specifics, like who would be eligible to join, where the recruiting stations would be, and what the minimum standards might involve, like English proficiency. In the meantime, the Pentagon and the immigration authorities have expanded a program that accelerates citizenship for legal residents who volunteer for the military. Since the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the number of immigrants in uniform who have become U.S. citizens has increased from 750 in 2001 to almost 4,600 last year, according to military statistics. With severe manpower strains because of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and a mandate to expand the overall size of the military, the Pentagon is under pressure to consider a variety of proposals involving foreign recruits, according to a military affairs analyst. "It works as a military idea and it works in the context of American immigration," said Thomas Donnelly, a military scholar at the conservative American Enterprise Institute in Washington and a leading proponent of recruiting more foreigners to serve in the military. As the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan grind on, the Pentagon has warned Congress and the White House that the military is stretched "to the breaking point." Both President George W. Bush and Robert Gates, his new defense secretary, have acknowledged that the total size of the military must be expanded to help alleviate the strain on ground troops, many of whom have been deployed repeatedly in combat theaters. Bush said last week that he had ordered Gates to come up with a plan for the first significant increase in ground forces since the end of the Cold War. That has led Pentagon officials to consider casting a wider net for noncitizens who are already in the United States, said Lieutenant Colonel Bryan Hilferty, an army spokesman. Already, the army and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement division of the Department of Homeland Security have "made it easier for green-card holders who do enlist to get their citizenship," Hilferty said. Other army officials, who asked not to be identified, said personnel officials were working with Congress and other parts of the government to test the feasibility of going beyond U.S. borders to recruit soldiers and marines. Currently, Pentagon policy stipulates that only immigrants legally residing in the United States are eligible to enlist. There are currently about 30,000 noncitizens who serve in the U.S. armed forces, making up about 2 percent of the active- duty force, according to statistics from the military and the Council on Foreign Relations. About 100 such noncitizens have died in Iraq and Afghanistan. A recent change in U.S. law, however, gave the Pentagon authority to bring immigrants to the United States if it determines it is vital to national security. So far, the Pentagon has not taken advantage of it, but the calls are growing to use this new authority. Indeed, some top military thinkers believe the United States should go as far as targeting foreigners in their native countries. "It's a little dramatic," said Michael O'Hanlon, a military specialist at the nonpartisan Brookings Institution and another supporter of the proposal. "But if you don't get some new idea how to do this, we will not be able to achieve an increase" in the size of the armed forces. "We have already done the standard things to recruit new soldiers, including using more recruiters and new advertising campaigns," O'Hanlon added. O'Hanlon and others noted that the country has relied before on sizable numbers of noncitizens to serve in the military - in the Revolutionary War, for example, German and French soldiers served alongside the colonists, and locals were recruited into U.S. ranks to fight insurgents in the Philippines. Other nations have recruited foreign citizens: In France, the famed Foreign Legion relies on about 8,000 noncitizens; Nepalese Gurkhas have fought and died with British Army forces for two centuries; and the Swiss Guard, which protects the Vatican, consists of troops who hail from many nations. "It is not without historical precedent," Donnelly said. Still, to some military officials and civil rights groups, relying on a large number of foreigners to serve in the military is offensive. A Hispanic rights advocacy group, National Council of La Raza, has said that the plan sends the wrong message that Americans themselves are not willing to sacrifice to defend their country. Officials have also raised concerns that immigrants would be disproportionately sent to the front lines as "cannon fodder" in any conflict. Some within the army privately express concern that a big push to recruit noncitizens would smack of "the decline of the American empire," said one army official who asked not to be identified. |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
On Mon, 25 Dec 2006 23:15:23 -0800, L.W.(Bill) ------ III wrote:
A U.S. military 'at its breaking point' considers foreign recruits By BryanBender The Boston Globe Tuesday, December 26, 2006 WASHINGTON The armed forces, already struggling to meet recruiting goals, are considering expanding the number of noncitizens in the ranks - including disputed proposals to open recruiting stations overseas and put more immigrants on a faster track to U.S. citizenship if they volunteer - according to Pentagon officials. Foreign citizens' serving in the U.S. military is a highly charged issue, which could expose the Pentagon to criticism that it is essentially using mercenaries to defend the country. Other analysts voice concern that a large contingent of noncitizens under arms could jeopardize national security or reflect badly on Americans' willingness to serve in uniform. The idea of signing up residents who are seeking U.S. citizenship is gaining traction as a way to address a critical need for the Pentagon, while fully absorbing some of the roughly one million immigrants that enter the United States legally each year. The proposal to induct more noncitizens, which is still largely on the drawing board, has to clear a number of hurdles. So far, the Pentagon has been quiet about specifics, like who would be eligible to join, where the recruiting stations would be, and what the minimum standards might involve, like English proficiency. In the meantime, the Pentagon and the immigration authorities have expanded a program that accelerates citizenship for legal residents who volunteer for the military. Since the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the number of immigrants in uniform who have become U.S. citizens has increased from 750 in 2001 to almost 4,600 last year, according to military statistics. With severe manpower strains because of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and a mandate to expand the overall size of the military, the Pentagon is under pressure to consider a variety of proposals involving foreign recruits, according to a military affairs analyst. "It works as a military idea and it works in the context of American immigration," said Thomas Donnelly, a military scholar at the conservative American Enterprise Institute in Washington and a leading proponent of recruiting more foreigners to serve in the military. As the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan grind on, the Pentagon has warned Congress and the White House that the military is stretched "to the breaking point." Both President George W. Bush and Robert Gates, his new defense secretary, have acknowledged that the total size of the military must be expanded to help alleviate the strain on ground troops, many of whom have been deployed repeatedly in combat theaters. Bush said last week that he had ordered Gates to come up with a plan for the first significant increase in ground forces since the end of the Cold War. That has led Pentagon officials to consider casting a wider net for noncitizens who are already in the United States, said Lieutenant Colonel Bryan Hilferty, an army spokesman. Already, the army and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement division of the Department of Homeland Security have "made it easier for green-card holders who do enlist to get their citizenship," Hilferty said. Other army officials, who asked not to be identified, said personnel officials were working with Congress and other parts of the government to test the feasibility of going beyond U.S. borders to recruit soldiers and marines. Currently, Pentagon policy stipulates that only immigrants legally residing in the United States are eligible to enlist. There are currently about 30,000 noncitizens who serve in the U.S. armed forces, making up about 2 percent of the active- duty force, according to statistics from the military and the Council on Foreign Relations. About 100 such noncitizens have died in Iraq and Afghanistan. A recent change in U.S. law, however, gave the Pentagon authority to bring immigrants to the United States if it determines it is vital to national security. So far, the Pentagon has not taken advantage of it, but the calls are growing to use this new authority. Indeed, some top military thinkers believe the United States should go as far as targeting foreigners in their native countries. "It's a little dramatic," said Michael O'Hanlon, a military specialist at the nonpartisan Brookings Institution and another supporter of the proposal. "But if you don't get some new idea how to do this, we will not be able to achieve an increase" in the size of the armed forces. "We have already done the standard things to recruit new soldiers, including using more recruiters and new advertising campaigns," O'Hanlon added. O'Hanlon and others noted that the country has relied before on sizable numbers of noncitizens to serve in the military - in the Revolutionary War, for example, German and French soldiers served alongside the colonists, and locals were recruited into U.S. ranks to fight insurgents in the Philippines. Other nations have recruited foreign citizens: In France, the famed Foreign Legion relies on about 8,000 noncitizens; Nepalese Gurkhas have fought and died with British Army forces for two centuries; and the Swiss Guard, which protects the Vatican, consists of troops who hail from many nations. "It is not without historical precedent," Donnelly said. Still, to some military officials and civil rights groups, relying on a large number of foreigners to serve in the military is offensive. A Hispanic rights advocacy group, National Council of La Raza, has said that the plan sends the wrong message that Americans themselves are not willing to sacrifice to defend their country. Officials have also raised concerns that immigrants would be disproportionately sent to the front lines as "cannon fodder" in any conflict. Some within the army privately express concern that a big push to recruit noncitizens would smack of "the decline of the American empire," said one army official who asked not to be identified. |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
The Merg wrote:
> I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty > good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club > lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and > a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually > get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they > make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. > The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making > pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at > Annapolis. > That would be a complete reversal of the way it was when I was in the Corp back in the 80's. Back then if you were single you could live on base free of charge with 3 square a day. If you were married you could live in base housing(if available) free of charge AND you got paid extra as a food allowance for your family. If there was no housing available and you had to live in civilian housing you got paid more still as a housing allowance. You could also get this as a single person but I don't remember the exact requirements for that. I remember that it used to fry my a55 that I did the same job as the next guy but he got paid a third more(guessing from ancient memory) just because he was dumb enough to get married and have kids. I've been out of the loop quite awhile but I can't imagine that those serving actually get their pay docked for room and board. Medical/Dental was 100% of everything for you and your family. Thirty days paid vacation every year. If you got transfered you got your stuff moved free of charge. Put in 20 years and you got 50% pay for life, 25 years and you got 75% plus medical/dental for you and your family for life and commissary privileges on any base any where. My reenlistment bonus was $16,000 US 1984 dollars, one pay grade increase, and my choice of assignment. It shouldn't be too tough to find out the skinny on today's enlisted man, but I can't imagine it got worse than that. All in all, if you can handle the lifestyle, career military wasn't a bad deal. > My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. > He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be > worth in the private sector. > For 30 years I'd have to think that there were SOME benefits/advantages that made those 30 years of inferior pay worth it, or why would he still be there. |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
The Merg wrote:
> I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty > good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club > lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and > a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually > get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they > make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. > The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making > pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at > Annapolis. > That would be a complete reversal of the way it was when I was in the Corp back in the 80's. Back then if you were single you could live on base free of charge with 3 square a day. If you were married you could live in base housing(if available) free of charge AND you got paid extra as a food allowance for your family. If there was no housing available and you had to live in civilian housing you got paid more still as a housing allowance. You could also get this as a single person but I don't remember the exact requirements for that. I remember that it used to fry my a55 that I did the same job as the next guy but he got paid a third more(guessing from ancient memory) just because he was dumb enough to get married and have kids. I've been out of the loop quite awhile but I can't imagine that those serving actually get their pay docked for room and board. Medical/Dental was 100% of everything for you and your family. Thirty days paid vacation every year. If you got transfered you got your stuff moved free of charge. Put in 20 years and you got 50% pay for life, 25 years and you got 75% plus medical/dental for you and your family for life and commissary privileges on any base any where. My reenlistment bonus was $16,000 US 1984 dollars, one pay grade increase, and my choice of assignment. It shouldn't be too tough to find out the skinny on today's enlisted man, but I can't imagine it got worse than that. All in all, if you can handle the lifestyle, career military wasn't a bad deal. > My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. > He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be > worth in the private sector. > For 30 years I'd have to think that there were SOME benefits/advantages that made those 30 years of inferior pay worth it, or why would he still be there. |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
The Merg wrote:
> I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty > good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club > lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and > a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually > get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they > make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. > The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making > pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at > Annapolis. > That would be a complete reversal of the way it was when I was in the Corp back in the 80's. Back then if you were single you could live on base free of charge with 3 square a day. If you were married you could live in base housing(if available) free of charge AND you got paid extra as a food allowance for your family. If there was no housing available and you had to live in civilian housing you got paid more still as a housing allowance. You could also get this as a single person but I don't remember the exact requirements for that. I remember that it used to fry my a55 that I did the same job as the next guy but he got paid a third more(guessing from ancient memory) just because he was dumb enough to get married and have kids. I've been out of the loop quite awhile but I can't imagine that those serving actually get their pay docked for room and board. Medical/Dental was 100% of everything for you and your family. Thirty days paid vacation every year. If you got transfered you got your stuff moved free of charge. Put in 20 years and you got 50% pay for life, 25 years and you got 75% plus medical/dental for you and your family for life and commissary privileges on any base any where. My reenlistment bonus was $16,000 US 1984 dollars, one pay grade increase, and my choice of assignment. It shouldn't be too tough to find out the skinny on today's enlisted man, but I can't imagine it got worse than that. All in all, if you can handle the lifestyle, career military wasn't a bad deal. > My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. > He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be > worth in the private sector. > For 30 years I'd have to think that there were SOME benefits/advantages that made those 30 years of inferior pay worth it, or why would he still be there. |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
I'm just going by what the guys on my team told me; I'm sure it would
be easy to confirm or deny what they said. I didn't (and don't) have any reason to believe they weren't right. I believe the statement came from one of the Annapolis guys that the enlisted guys "really get screwed" because of the low pay coupled with the deductions. My dad is still in his job because he has a lot of money tied into his pension plan and still has two (of six) kids in high school, the poor guy. Tom Greening wrote: > The Merg wrote: > > I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty > > good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club > > lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and > > a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually > > get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they > > make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. > > The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making > > pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at > > Annapolis. > > > > That would be a complete reversal of the way it was when I was in the > Corp back in the 80's. Back then if you were single you could live on > base free of charge with 3 square a day. If you were married you could > live in base housing(if available) free of charge AND you got paid extra > as a food allowance for your family. If there was no housing available > and you had to live in civilian housing you got paid more still as a > housing allowance. You could also get this as a single person but I > don't remember the exact requirements for that. I remember that it used > to fry my a55 that I did the same job as the next guy but he got paid a > third more(guessing from ancient memory) just because he was dumb enough > to get married and have kids. I've been out of the loop quite awhile > but I can't imagine that those serving actually get their pay docked for > room and board. > > Medical/Dental was 100% of everything for you and your family. Thirty > days paid vacation every year. If you got transfered you got your stuff > moved free of charge. Put in 20 years and you got 50% pay for life, 25 > years and you got 75% plus medical/dental for you and your family for > life and commissary privileges on any base any where. My reenlistment > bonus was $16,000 US 1984 dollars, one pay grade increase, and my choice > of assignment. > > It shouldn't be too tough to find out the skinny on today's enlisted > man, but I can't imagine it got worse than that. > > All in all, if you can handle the lifestyle, career military wasn't a > bad deal. > > > > My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. > > He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be > > worth in the private sector. > > > > > For 30 years I'd have to think that there were SOME benefits/advantages > that made those 30 years of inferior pay worth it, or why would he still > be there. |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
I'm just going by what the guys on my team told me; I'm sure it would
be easy to confirm or deny what they said. I didn't (and don't) have any reason to believe they weren't right. I believe the statement came from one of the Annapolis guys that the enlisted guys "really get screwed" because of the low pay coupled with the deductions. My dad is still in his job because he has a lot of money tied into his pension plan and still has two (of six) kids in high school, the poor guy. Tom Greening wrote: > The Merg wrote: > > I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty > > good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club > > lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and > > a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually > > get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they > > make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. > > The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making > > pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at > > Annapolis. > > > > That would be a complete reversal of the way it was when I was in the > Corp back in the 80's. Back then if you were single you could live on > base free of charge with 3 square a day. If you were married you could > live in base housing(if available) free of charge AND you got paid extra > as a food allowance for your family. If there was no housing available > and you had to live in civilian housing you got paid more still as a > housing allowance. You could also get this as a single person but I > don't remember the exact requirements for that. I remember that it used > to fry my a55 that I did the same job as the next guy but he got paid a > third more(guessing from ancient memory) just because he was dumb enough > to get married and have kids. I've been out of the loop quite awhile > but I can't imagine that those serving actually get their pay docked for > room and board. > > Medical/Dental was 100% of everything for you and your family. Thirty > days paid vacation every year. If you got transfered you got your stuff > moved free of charge. Put in 20 years and you got 50% pay for life, 25 > years and you got 75% plus medical/dental for you and your family for > life and commissary privileges on any base any where. My reenlistment > bonus was $16,000 US 1984 dollars, one pay grade increase, and my choice > of assignment. > > It shouldn't be too tough to find out the skinny on today's enlisted > man, but I can't imagine it got worse than that. > > All in all, if you can handle the lifestyle, career military wasn't a > bad deal. > > > > My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. > > He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be > > worth in the private sector. > > > > > For 30 years I'd have to think that there were SOME benefits/advantages > that made those 30 years of inferior pay worth it, or why would he still > be there. |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
I'm just going by what the guys on my team told me; I'm sure it would
be easy to confirm or deny what they said. I didn't (and don't) have any reason to believe they weren't right. I believe the statement came from one of the Annapolis guys that the enlisted guys "really get screwed" because of the low pay coupled with the deductions. My dad is still in his job because he has a lot of money tied into his pension plan and still has two (of six) kids in high school, the poor guy. Tom Greening wrote: > The Merg wrote: > > I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty > > good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club > > lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and > > a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually > > get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they > > make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. > > The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making > > pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at > > Annapolis. > > > > That would be a complete reversal of the way it was when I was in the > Corp back in the 80's. Back then if you were single you could live on > base free of charge with 3 square a day. If you were married you could > live in base housing(if available) free of charge AND you got paid extra > as a food allowance for your family. If there was no housing available > and you had to live in civilian housing you got paid more still as a > housing allowance. You could also get this as a single person but I > don't remember the exact requirements for that. I remember that it used > to fry my a55 that I did the same job as the next guy but he got paid a > third more(guessing from ancient memory) just because he was dumb enough > to get married and have kids. I've been out of the loop quite awhile > but I can't imagine that those serving actually get their pay docked for > room and board. > > Medical/Dental was 100% of everything for you and your family. Thirty > days paid vacation every year. If you got transfered you got your stuff > moved free of charge. Put in 20 years and you got 50% pay for life, 25 > years and you got 75% plus medical/dental for you and your family for > life and commissary privileges on any base any where. My reenlistment > bonus was $16,000 US 1984 dollars, one pay grade increase, and my choice > of assignment. > > It shouldn't be too tough to find out the skinny on today's enlisted > man, but I can't imagine it got worse than that. > > All in all, if you can handle the lifestyle, career military wasn't a > bad deal. > > > > My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. > > He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be > > worth in the private sector. > > > > > For 30 years I'd have to think that there were SOME benefits/advantages > that made those 30 years of inferior pay worth it, or why would he still > be there. |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Never heard of enlisted men being charged room and/or board unless they
were married and getting allowances or were on some type of TDY where they were being paid per diem. That might have changed since I was in the military. Yes, you got free room and board. In some bases, the military meals were really quite good as some of the cooks actually took pride in their ability to turn available stock into edible results. ..and there were a few of the other type as well. As for the free housing, that was if you lived in barracks and were single. If you were a platoon sergeant or squad leader you typically got a private room. Otherwise you might be clustered with a small group of folks in your squad or you might be in the larger flat barracks where everyone was on cots or bunk beds in one big room. With one exception at White Sands, never ran into any military single housing that was as good as the worst college dorm room. Married personnel were allowed to live on base and/or get a housing allowance and food allowance. If they ate in the mess hall they had to pay. If officers ate in the mess hall they had to pay. In some bases, if a non-com ate in the enlisted mess they also had to pay but if single did not get a meal allowance unless they were on some sort of detachment. Or you could eat at the nco club or officers club, but those were not free. The pay scales sucked. As an E5 with proficiency pay in two different skills, I managed, but lower enlisted men were chronically short of funds. Even as an E5, the pay for civil service GS-7 was considerably higher even after accounting for house payment and buying your own food. Civilian jobs paid even more. The Merg proclaimed: > I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty > good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club > lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and > a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually > get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they > make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. > The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making > pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at > Annapolis. > > My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. > He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be > worth in the private sector. > > Dave Milne wrote: > >>One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your >>military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. >>A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 >>years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). >>That really sucks. >> >>http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm >>http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ >> >>Dave Milne, Scotland >> >> >>"L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message >>news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... >> >>>Twas the night before Christmas >>>He lived all alone >>>In a one bedroom house made of >>>Plaster and Stone >>>I had come down the Chimney >>>With presents to give. >>>And to see just who >>>In this home did live. >>>I looked all about >>>A strange sight I did see. >>>No tinsel, No presents, >>>Not even a tree. >>>No stocking by the mantle, >>>Just boots filled with sand. >>>On the wall hung pictures >>>Of far distant lands. >>>With medals and badges, >>>Awards of all kinds, >>>A sober thought >>>Came through my mind. >>>For this house was different, >>>It was dark and dreary, >>>I found the home of a soldier, >>>Once I could see clearly. >>>The soldier lay sleeping, >>>Silent, alone, >>>Curled up on the floor >>>In this one bedroom home. >>>The face was so gentle, >>>The room in such disorder, >>>Not how I pictured >>>A United States Soldier. >>>Was this the hero >>>Of whom I'd just read? >>>Curled up on a Poncho, >>>The floor for a bed? >>>I realized the families >>>That I saw this night, >>>Owed their lives to these soldiers >>>Who were willing to fight. >>>Soon round the world, >>>The children would play, >>>And grownup would celebrate >>>A bright Christmas Day. >>>They all enjoyed freedom >>>Each month of the year, >>>Because of the soldiers, >>>Like the one lying here. >>>I couldn't help wonder >>>How many lay alone, >>>On a cold Christmas Eve >>>In a land far from home. >>>The very thought >>>Brought a tear to my eye, >>>I dropped to my knees >>>And started to Cry. >>>The soldier awakened >>>And I heard a rough voice, >>>"Santa don't cry, >>>This life is my choice." >>>The solider rolled over >>>And drifted to sleep, >>>I couldn't control it, >>>I continued to weep. >>>I kept watch for hours, >>>So silent and still >>>And we both shivered >>>>From the cold nights chill. >>>I didn't want to leave >>>On that cold, dark, night, >>>This guardian of Honor >>>So willing to fight. >>>The solider rolled over, >>>With a voice soft and pure, >>>Whispered, "Carry on Santa, >>>It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >>>One look at my watch, >>>And I knew he was right. >>>"Merry Christmas my friend, >>>And to all a good night." > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Never heard of enlisted men being charged room and/or board unless they
were married and getting allowances or were on some type of TDY where they were being paid per diem. That might have changed since I was in the military. Yes, you got free room and board. In some bases, the military meals were really quite good as some of the cooks actually took pride in their ability to turn available stock into edible results. ..and there were a few of the other type as well. As for the free housing, that was if you lived in barracks and were single. If you were a platoon sergeant or squad leader you typically got a private room. Otherwise you might be clustered with a small group of folks in your squad or you might be in the larger flat barracks where everyone was on cots or bunk beds in one big room. With one exception at White Sands, never ran into any military single housing that was as good as the worst college dorm room. Married personnel were allowed to live on base and/or get a housing allowance and food allowance. If they ate in the mess hall they had to pay. If officers ate in the mess hall they had to pay. In some bases, if a non-com ate in the enlisted mess they also had to pay but if single did not get a meal allowance unless they were on some sort of detachment. Or you could eat at the nco club or officers club, but those were not free. The pay scales sucked. As an E5 with proficiency pay in two different skills, I managed, but lower enlisted men were chronically short of funds. Even as an E5, the pay for civil service GS-7 was considerably higher even after accounting for house payment and buying your own food. Civilian jobs paid even more. The Merg proclaimed: > I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty > good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club > lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and > a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually > get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they > make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. > The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making > pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at > Annapolis. > > My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. > He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be > worth in the private sector. > > Dave Milne wrote: > >>One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your >>military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. >>A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 >>years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). >>That really sucks. >> >>http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm >>http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ >> >>Dave Milne, Scotland >> >> >>"L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message >>news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... >> >>>Twas the night before Christmas >>>He lived all alone >>>In a one bedroom house made of >>>Plaster and Stone >>>I had come down the Chimney >>>With presents to give. >>>And to see just who >>>In this home did live. >>>I looked all about >>>A strange sight I did see. >>>No tinsel, No presents, >>>Not even a tree. >>>No stocking by the mantle, >>>Just boots filled with sand. >>>On the wall hung pictures >>>Of far distant lands. >>>With medals and badges, >>>Awards of all kinds, >>>A sober thought >>>Came through my mind. >>>For this house was different, >>>It was dark and dreary, >>>I found the home of a soldier, >>>Once I could see clearly. >>>The soldier lay sleeping, >>>Silent, alone, >>>Curled up on the floor >>>In this one bedroom home. >>>The face was so gentle, >>>The room in such disorder, >>>Not how I pictured >>>A United States Soldier. >>>Was this the hero >>>Of whom I'd just read? >>>Curled up on a Poncho, >>>The floor for a bed? >>>I realized the families >>>That I saw this night, >>>Owed their lives to these soldiers >>>Who were willing to fight. >>>Soon round the world, >>>The children would play, >>>And grownup would celebrate >>>A bright Christmas Day. >>>They all enjoyed freedom >>>Each month of the year, >>>Because of the soldiers, >>>Like the one lying here. >>>I couldn't help wonder >>>How many lay alone, >>>On a cold Christmas Eve >>>In a land far from home. >>>The very thought >>>Brought a tear to my eye, >>>I dropped to my knees >>>And started to Cry. >>>The soldier awakened >>>And I heard a rough voice, >>>"Santa don't cry, >>>This life is my choice." >>>The solider rolled over >>>And drifted to sleep, >>>I couldn't control it, >>>I continued to weep. >>>I kept watch for hours, >>>So silent and still >>>And we both shivered >>>>From the cold nights chill. >>>I didn't want to leave >>>On that cold, dark, night, >>>This guardian of Honor >>>So willing to fight. >>>The solider rolled over, >>>With a voice soft and pure, >>>Whispered, "Carry on Santa, >>>It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >>>One look at my watch, >>>And I knew he was right. >>>"Merry Christmas my friend, >>>And to all a good night." > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Never heard of enlisted men being charged room and/or board unless they
were married and getting allowances or were on some type of TDY where they were being paid per diem. That might have changed since I was in the military. Yes, you got free room and board. In some bases, the military meals were really quite good as some of the cooks actually took pride in their ability to turn available stock into edible results. ..and there were a few of the other type as well. As for the free housing, that was if you lived in barracks and were single. If you were a platoon sergeant or squad leader you typically got a private room. Otherwise you might be clustered with a small group of folks in your squad or you might be in the larger flat barracks where everyone was on cots or bunk beds in one big room. With one exception at White Sands, never ran into any military single housing that was as good as the worst college dorm room. Married personnel were allowed to live on base and/or get a housing allowance and food allowance. If they ate in the mess hall they had to pay. If officers ate in the mess hall they had to pay. In some bases, if a non-com ate in the enlisted mess they also had to pay but if single did not get a meal allowance unless they were on some sort of detachment. Or you could eat at the nco club or officers club, but those were not free. The pay scales sucked. As an E5 with proficiency pay in two different skills, I managed, but lower enlisted men were chronically short of funds. Even as an E5, the pay for civil service GS-7 was considerably higher even after accounting for house payment and buying your own food. Civilian jobs paid even more. The Merg proclaimed: > I was always under the impression that American enlisted had a pretty > good deal, free room and board and etc. However, I played club > lacrosse in Norfolk with a bunch of Navy guys, couple enlisted guys and > a couple Academy guys and they told me that the enlisted guys actually > get room and board taken out of their paychecks. So not only do they > make jackshit, but they then get more money taken out. > The officers, most a few years out of the Academy, were all making > pretty good money - in addition to the money they made while at > Annapolis. > > My father is a civil servant - mechanical engineer for the DOD/Navy. > He's been there for 30 or so years and makes nothing near what he'd be > worth in the private sector. > > Dave Milne wrote: > >>One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your >>military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. >>A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant (8 >>years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). >>That really sucks. >> >>http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm >>http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ >> >>Dave Milne, Scotland >> >> >>"L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message >>news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... >> >>>Twas the night before Christmas >>>He lived all alone >>>In a one bedroom house made of >>>Plaster and Stone >>>I had come down the Chimney >>>With presents to give. >>>And to see just who >>>In this home did live. >>>I looked all about >>>A strange sight I did see. >>>No tinsel, No presents, >>>Not even a tree. >>>No stocking by the mantle, >>>Just boots filled with sand. >>>On the wall hung pictures >>>Of far distant lands. >>>With medals and badges, >>>Awards of all kinds, >>>A sober thought >>>Came through my mind. >>>For this house was different, >>>It was dark and dreary, >>>I found the home of a soldier, >>>Once I could see clearly. >>>The soldier lay sleeping, >>>Silent, alone, >>>Curled up on the floor >>>In this one bedroom home. >>>The face was so gentle, >>>The room in such disorder, >>>Not how I pictured >>>A United States Soldier. >>>Was this the hero >>>Of whom I'd just read? >>>Curled up on a Poncho, >>>The floor for a bed? >>>I realized the families >>>That I saw this night, >>>Owed their lives to these soldiers >>>Who were willing to fight. >>>Soon round the world, >>>The children would play, >>>And grownup would celebrate >>>A bright Christmas Day. >>>They all enjoyed freedom >>>Each month of the year, >>>Because of the soldiers, >>>Like the one lying here. >>>I couldn't help wonder >>>How many lay alone, >>>On a cold Christmas Eve >>>In a land far from home. >>>The very thought >>>Brought a tear to my eye, >>>I dropped to my knees >>>And started to Cry. >>>The soldier awakened >>>And I heard a rough voice, >>>"Santa don't cry, >>>This life is my choice." >>>The solider rolled over >>>And drifted to sleep, >>>I couldn't control it, >>>I continued to weep. >>>I kept watch for hours, >>>So silent and still >>>And we both shivered >>>>From the cold nights chill. >>>I didn't want to leave >>>On that cold, dark, night, >>>This guardian of Honor >>>So willing to fight. >>>The solider rolled over, >>>With a voice soft and pure, >>>Whispered, "Carry on Santa, >>>It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >>>One look at my watch, >>>And I knew he was right. >>>"Merry Christmas my friend, >>>And to all a good night." > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
But not if you are a Scot?
"Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message news:45946513$0$3494$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > news:FhYkh.22459$k74.16263@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... >> We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a >> couple of thousand bucks a year. > > Well it's different here, although state universities are pretty cheap for > state residents. > >> Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white >> with a significant number from Scotland. > > Well there you go. White lives are worth more than colored ones. > > Earle >> >> Dave Milne, Scotland >> >> "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message >> news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... >> > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and >> other >> > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an >> > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military >> > personnel. >> > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La >> > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish > reasons, >> > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It >> turns >> > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and >> > are >> > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't >> > know.) >> > >> > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? >> > >> > Earle >> > >> > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message >> > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... >> > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise >> > > your >> > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. >> > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a > Sergeant >> > (8 >> > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). >> > > That really sucks. >> > > >> > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm >> > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ >> > > >> > > Dave Milne, Scotland >> > > >> > > >> > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message >> > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... >> > > > Twas the night before Christmas >> > > > He lived all alone >> > > > In a one bedroom house made of >> > > > Plaster and Stone >> > > > I had come down the Chimney >> > > > With presents to give. >> > > > And to see just who >> > > > In this home did live. >> > > > I looked all about >> > > > A strange sight I did see. >> > > > No tinsel, No presents, >> > > > Not even a tree. >> > > > No stocking by the mantle, >> > > > Just boots filled with sand. >> > > > On the wall hung pictures >> > > > Of far distant lands. >> > > > With medals and badges, >> > > > Awards of all kinds, >> > > > A sober thought >> > > > Came through my mind. >> > > > For this house was different, >> > > > It was dark and dreary, >> > > > I found the home of a soldier, >> > > > Once I could see clearly. >> > > > The soldier lay sleeping, >> > > > Silent, alone, >> > > > Curled up on the floor >> > > > In this one bedroom home. >> > > > The face was so gentle, >> > > > The room in such disorder, >> > > > Not how I pictured >> > > > A United States Soldier. >> > > > Was this the hero >> > > > Of whom I'd just read? >> > > > Curled up on a Poncho, >> > > > The floor for a bed? >> > > > I realized the families >> > > > That I saw this night, >> > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers >> > > > Who were willing to fight. >> > > > Soon round the world, >> > > > The children would play, >> > > > And grownup would celebrate >> > > > A bright Christmas Day. >> > > > They all enjoyed freedom >> > > > Each month of the year, >> > > > Because of the soldiers, >> > > > Like the one lying here. >> > > > I couldn't help wonder >> > > > How many lay alone, >> > > > On a cold Christmas Eve >> > > > In a land far from home. >> > > > The very thought >> > > > Brought a tear to my eye, >> > > > I dropped to my knees >> > > > And started to Cry. >> > > > The soldier awakened >> > > > And I heard a rough voice, >> > > > "Santa don't cry, >> > > > This life is my choice." >> > > > The solider rolled over >> > > > And drifted to sleep, >> > > > I couldn't control it, >> > > > I continued to weep. >> > > > I kept watch for hours, >> > > > So silent and still >> > > > And we both shivered >> > > > >From the cold nights chill. >> > > > I didn't want to leave >> > > > On that cold, dark, night, >> > > > This guardian of Honor >> > > > So willing to fight. >> > > > The solider rolled over, >> > > > With a voice soft and pure, >> > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, >> > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >> > > > One look at my watch, >> > > > And I knew he was right. >> > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, >> > > > And to all a good night." >> > > >> > > >> > >> > >> >> > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
But not if you are a Scot?
"Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message news:45946513$0$3494$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > news:FhYkh.22459$k74.16263@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... >> We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a >> couple of thousand bucks a year. > > Well it's different here, although state universities are pretty cheap for > state residents. > >> Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white >> with a significant number from Scotland. > > Well there you go. White lives are worth more than colored ones. > > Earle >> >> Dave Milne, Scotland >> >> "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message >> news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... >> > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and >> other >> > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an >> > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military >> > personnel. >> > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La >> > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish > reasons, >> > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It >> turns >> > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and >> > are >> > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't >> > know.) >> > >> > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? >> > >> > Earle >> > >> > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message >> > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... >> > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise >> > > your >> > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. >> > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a > Sergeant >> > (8 >> > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). >> > > That really sucks. >> > > >> > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm >> > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ >> > > >> > > Dave Milne, Scotland >> > > >> > > >> > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message >> > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... >> > > > Twas the night before Christmas >> > > > He lived all alone >> > > > In a one bedroom house made of >> > > > Plaster and Stone >> > > > I had come down the Chimney >> > > > With presents to give. >> > > > And to see just who >> > > > In this home did live. >> > > > I looked all about >> > > > A strange sight I did see. >> > > > No tinsel, No presents, >> > > > Not even a tree. >> > > > No stocking by the mantle, >> > > > Just boots filled with sand. >> > > > On the wall hung pictures >> > > > Of far distant lands. >> > > > With medals and badges, >> > > > Awards of all kinds, >> > > > A sober thought >> > > > Came through my mind. >> > > > For this house was different, >> > > > It was dark and dreary, >> > > > I found the home of a soldier, >> > > > Once I could see clearly. >> > > > The soldier lay sleeping, >> > > > Silent, alone, >> > > > Curled up on the floor >> > > > In this one bedroom home. >> > > > The face was so gentle, >> > > > The room in such disorder, >> > > > Not how I pictured >> > > > A United States Soldier. >> > > > Was this the hero >> > > > Of whom I'd just read? >> > > > Curled up on a Poncho, >> > > > The floor for a bed? >> > > > I realized the families >> > > > That I saw this night, >> > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers >> > > > Who were willing to fight. >> > > > Soon round the world, >> > > > The children would play, >> > > > And grownup would celebrate >> > > > A bright Christmas Day. >> > > > They all enjoyed freedom >> > > > Each month of the year, >> > > > Because of the soldiers, >> > > > Like the one lying here. >> > > > I couldn't help wonder >> > > > How many lay alone, >> > > > On a cold Christmas Eve >> > > > In a land far from home. >> > > > The very thought >> > > > Brought a tear to my eye, >> > > > I dropped to my knees >> > > > And started to Cry. >> > > > The soldier awakened >> > > > And I heard a rough voice, >> > > > "Santa don't cry, >> > > > This life is my choice." >> > > > The solider rolled over >> > > > And drifted to sleep, >> > > > I couldn't control it, >> > > > I continued to weep. >> > > > I kept watch for hours, >> > > > So silent and still >> > > > And we both shivered >> > > > >From the cold nights chill. >> > > > I didn't want to leave >> > > > On that cold, dark, night, >> > > > This guardian of Honor >> > > > So willing to fight. >> > > > The solider rolled over, >> > > > With a voice soft and pure, >> > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, >> > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >> > > > One look at my watch, >> > > > And I knew he was right. >> > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, >> > > > And to all a good night." >> > > >> > > >> > >> > >> >> > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
But not if you are a Scot?
"Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message news:45946513$0$3494$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > news:FhYkh.22459$k74.16263@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... >> We all get free medical care here, and university tuition fees are a >> couple of thousand bucks a year. > > Well it's different here, although state universities are pretty cheap for > state residents. > >> Ethnic composition of the armed forces I would guess is almost all white >> with a significant number from Scotland. > > Well there you go. White lives are worth more than colored ones. > > Earle >> >> Dave Milne, Scotland >> >> "Earle Horton" <Earle@spammers_me_enojan.usa> wrote in message >> news:4594586f$0$3434$a82e2bb9@reader.athenanews.co m... >> > Do you include benefits? Lots of these guys get free medical care and >> other >> > bennies for life. Of course, some of them need it. I recently read an >> > article on MSN Latino about quality and retention of military >> > personnel. >> > The interviewee really liked Latinos, because they are in it for "La >> > patria", while the Anglos by and large are in it for more selfish > reasons, >> > such as job training, educational benefits, and getting off drugs. It >> turns >> > out that the soldiers with the more selfless motives last longer and >> > are >> > more "productive" at what they do. (I guess they mean killing, I don't >> > know.) >> > >> > What's the ethnic composition of your armed forces, by the way? >> > >> > Earle >> > >> > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message >> > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... >> > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise >> > > your >> > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. >> > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a > Sergeant >> > (8 >> > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). >> > > That really sucks. >> > > >> > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm >> > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ >> > > >> > > Dave Milne, Scotland >> > > >> > > >> > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message >> > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... >> > > > Twas the night before Christmas >> > > > He lived all alone >> > > > In a one bedroom house made of >> > > > Plaster and Stone >> > > > I had come down the Chimney >> > > > With presents to give. >> > > > And to see just who >> > > > In this home did live. >> > > > I looked all about >> > > > A strange sight I did see. >> > > > No tinsel, No presents, >> > > > Not even a tree. >> > > > No stocking by the mantle, >> > > > Just boots filled with sand. >> > > > On the wall hung pictures >> > > > Of far distant lands. >> > > > With medals and badges, >> > > > Awards of all kinds, >> > > > A sober thought >> > > > Came through my mind. >> > > > For this house was different, >> > > > It was dark and dreary, >> > > > I found the home of a soldier, >> > > > Once I could see clearly. >> > > > The soldier lay sleeping, >> > > > Silent, alone, >> > > > Curled up on the floor >> > > > In this one bedroom home. >> > > > The face was so gentle, >> > > > The room in such disorder, >> > > > Not how I pictured >> > > > A United States Soldier. >> > > > Was this the hero >> > > > Of whom I'd just read? >> > > > Curled up on a Poncho, >> > > > The floor for a bed? >> > > > I realized the families >> > > > That I saw this night, >> > > > Owed their lives to these soldiers >> > > > Who were willing to fight. >> > > > Soon round the world, >> > > > The children would play, >> > > > And grownup would celebrate >> > > > A bright Christmas Day. >> > > > They all enjoyed freedom >> > > > Each month of the year, >> > > > Because of the soldiers, >> > > > Like the one lying here. >> > > > I couldn't help wonder >> > > > How many lay alone, >> > > > On a cold Christmas Eve >> > > > In a land far from home. >> > > > The very thought >> > > > Brought a tear to my eye, >> > > > I dropped to my knees >> > > > And started to Cry. >> > > > The soldier awakened >> > > > And I heard a rough voice, >> > > > "Santa don't cry, >> > > > This life is my choice." >> > > > The solider rolled over >> > > > And drifted to sleep, >> > > > I couldn't control it, >> > > > I continued to weep. >> > > > I kept watch for hours, >> > > > So silent and still >> > > > And we both shivered >> > > > >From the cold nights chill. >> > > > I didn't want to leave >> > > > On that cold, dark, night, >> > > > This guardian of Honor >> > > > So willing to fight. >> > > > The solider rolled over, >> > > > With a voice soft and pure, >> > > > Whispered, "Carry on Santa, >> > > > It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >> > > > One look at my watch, >> > > > And I knew he was right. >> > > > "Merry Christmas my friend, >> > > > And to all a good night." >> > > >> > > >> > >> > >> >> > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Only one of the two main political parties regularly votes against pay
raises for the military. It is the same one that nominated a candidate who said only people too stupid to get a job at McDonalds joined the military. This group is also the one that tried to disallow all the ballots from deployed soldiers in the pas couple elections. "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > (8 > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > That really sucks. > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... >> Twas the night before Christmas >> He lived all alone >> In a one bedroom house made of >> Plaster and Stone >> I had come down the Chimney >> With presents to give. >> And to see just who >> In this home did live. >> I looked all about >> A strange sight I did see. >> No tinsel, No presents, >> Not even a tree. >> No stocking by the mantle, >> Just boots filled with sand. >> On the wall hung pictures >> Of far distant lands. >> With medals and badges, >> Awards of all kinds, >> A sober thought >> Came through my mind. >> For this house was different, >> It was dark and dreary, >> I found the home of a soldier, >> Once I could see clearly. >> The soldier lay sleeping, >> Silent, alone, >> Curled up on the floor >> In this one bedroom home. >> The face was so gentle, >> The room in such disorder, >> Not how I pictured >> A United States Soldier. >> Was this the hero >> Of whom I'd just read? >> Curled up on a Poncho, >> The floor for a bed? >> I realized the families >> That I saw this night, >> Owed their lives to these soldiers >> Who were willing to fight. >> Soon round the world, >> The children would play, >> And grownup would celebrate >> A bright Christmas Day. >> They all enjoyed freedom >> Each month of the year, >> Because of the soldiers, >> Like the one lying here. >> I couldn't help wonder >> How many lay alone, >> On a cold Christmas Eve >> In a land far from home. >> The very thought >> Brought a tear to my eye, >> I dropped to my knees >> And started to Cry. >> The soldier awakened >> And I heard a rough voice, >> "Santa don't cry, >> This life is my choice." >> The solider rolled over >> And drifted to sleep, >> I couldn't control it, >> I continued to weep. >> I kept watch for hours, >> So silent and still >> And we both shivered >> >From the cold nights chill. >> I didn't want to leave >> On that cold, dark, night, >> This guardian of Honor >> So willing to fight. >> The solider rolled over, >> With a voice soft and pure, >> Whispered, "Carry on Santa, >> It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >> One look at my watch, >> And I knew he was right. >> "Merry Christmas my friend, >> And to all a good night." > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Only one of the two main political parties regularly votes against pay
raises for the military. It is the same one that nominated a candidate who said only people too stupid to get a job at McDonalds joined the military. This group is also the one that tried to disallow all the ballots from deployed soldiers in the pas couple elections. "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > (8 > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > That really sucks. > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... >> Twas the night before Christmas >> He lived all alone >> In a one bedroom house made of >> Plaster and Stone >> I had come down the Chimney >> With presents to give. >> And to see just who >> In this home did live. >> I looked all about >> A strange sight I did see. >> No tinsel, No presents, >> Not even a tree. >> No stocking by the mantle, >> Just boots filled with sand. >> On the wall hung pictures >> Of far distant lands. >> With medals and badges, >> Awards of all kinds, >> A sober thought >> Came through my mind. >> For this house was different, >> It was dark and dreary, >> I found the home of a soldier, >> Once I could see clearly. >> The soldier lay sleeping, >> Silent, alone, >> Curled up on the floor >> In this one bedroom home. >> The face was so gentle, >> The room in such disorder, >> Not how I pictured >> A United States Soldier. >> Was this the hero >> Of whom I'd just read? >> Curled up on a Poncho, >> The floor for a bed? >> I realized the families >> That I saw this night, >> Owed their lives to these soldiers >> Who were willing to fight. >> Soon round the world, >> The children would play, >> And grownup would celebrate >> A bright Christmas Day. >> They all enjoyed freedom >> Each month of the year, >> Because of the soldiers, >> Like the one lying here. >> I couldn't help wonder >> How many lay alone, >> On a cold Christmas Eve >> In a land far from home. >> The very thought >> Brought a tear to my eye, >> I dropped to my knees >> And started to Cry. >> The soldier awakened >> And I heard a rough voice, >> "Santa don't cry, >> This life is my choice." >> The solider rolled over >> And drifted to sleep, >> I couldn't control it, >> I continued to weep. >> I kept watch for hours, >> So silent and still >> And we both shivered >> >From the cold nights chill. >> I didn't want to leave >> On that cold, dark, night, >> This guardian of Honor >> So willing to fight. >> The solider rolled over, >> With a voice soft and pure, >> Whispered, "Carry on Santa, >> It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >> One look at my watch, >> And I knew he was right. >> "Merry Christmas my friend, >> And to all a good night." > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
Only one of the two main political parties regularly votes against pay
raises for the military. It is the same one that nominated a candidate who said only people too stupid to get a job at McDonalds joined the military. This group is also the one that tried to disallow all the ballots from deployed soldiers in the pas couple elections. "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > (8 > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > That really sucks. > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... >> Twas the night before Christmas >> He lived all alone >> In a one bedroom house made of >> Plaster and Stone >> I had come down the Chimney >> With presents to give. >> And to see just who >> In this home did live. >> I looked all about >> A strange sight I did see. >> No tinsel, No presents, >> Not even a tree. >> No stocking by the mantle, >> Just boots filled with sand. >> On the wall hung pictures >> Of far distant lands. >> With medals and badges, >> Awards of all kinds, >> A sober thought >> Came through my mind. >> For this house was different, >> It was dark and dreary, >> I found the home of a soldier, >> Once I could see clearly. >> The soldier lay sleeping, >> Silent, alone, >> Curled up on the floor >> In this one bedroom home. >> The face was so gentle, >> The room in such disorder, >> Not how I pictured >> A United States Soldier. >> Was this the hero >> Of whom I'd just read? >> Curled up on a Poncho, >> The floor for a bed? >> I realized the families >> That I saw this night, >> Owed their lives to these soldiers >> Who were willing to fight. >> Soon round the world, >> The children would play, >> And grownup would celebrate >> A bright Christmas Day. >> They all enjoyed freedom >> Each month of the year, >> Because of the soldiers, >> Like the one lying here. >> I couldn't help wonder >> How many lay alone, >> On a cold Christmas Eve >> In a land far from home. >> The very thought >> Brought a tear to my eye, >> I dropped to my knees >> And started to Cry. >> The soldier awakened >> And I heard a rough voice, >> "Santa don't cry, >> This life is my choice." >> The solider rolled over >> And drifted to sleep, >> I couldn't control it, >> I continued to weep. >> I kept watch for hours, >> So silent and still >> And we both shivered >> >From the cold nights chill. >> I didn't want to leave >> On that cold, dark, night, >> This guardian of Honor >> So willing to fight. >> The solider rolled over, >> With a voice soft and pure, >> Whispered, "Carry on Santa, >> It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >> One look at my watch, >> And I knew he was right. >> "Merry Christmas my friend, >> And to all a good night." > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
If soldiering is like anything else, you get a better product when you pay
more. Don't let's get started on teachers, nurses, police officers, all kinds of municipal officers... This is the fast food, bargain basement, super size me country, and don't let's forget it. Right now Washington seems to be asking for an infinite military force capable of wiping every Islamic extremist off the face of the Earth. While I am somewhat in sympathy with this goal, I don't see how it is possible and I wouldn't give the lying bastards at the Pentagon a cent more unless they came out with a plan for scaling things down. I would make them all read the Tar Baby story too, and write a one page essay on what it is about. Everybody that knows me knows how I like to look at the dark side of things, but this is a serious cluster **** we are in right now. Heh, Sadaam Hussein is set for hanging, last thing I read. I hope at least they telecast it. Pay per view Al Jazeera? Earle "billy ray" <billy_ray@SPAMfuse.net> wrote in message news:88e28$459494a7$422afc51$16675@FUSE.NET... > Only one of the two main political parties regularly votes against pay > raises for the military. > > It is the same one that nominated a candidate who said only people too > stupid to get a job at McDonalds joined the military. > > This group is also the one that tried to disallow all the ballots from > deployed soldiers in the pas couple elections. > > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > > (8 > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > That really sucks. > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > >> Twas the night before Christmas > >> He lived all alone > >> In a one bedroom house made of > >> Plaster and Stone > >> I had come down the Chimney > >> With presents to give. > >> And to see just who > >> In this home did live. > >> I looked all about > >> A strange sight I did see. > >> No tinsel, No presents, > >> Not even a tree. > >> No stocking by the mantle, > >> Just boots filled with sand. > >> On the wall hung pictures > >> Of far distant lands. > >> With medals and badges, > >> Awards of all kinds, > >> A sober thought > >> Came through my mind. > >> For this house was different, > >> It was dark and dreary, > >> I found the home of a soldier, > >> Once I could see clearly. > >> The soldier lay sleeping, > >> Silent, alone, > >> Curled up on the floor > >> In this one bedroom home. > >> The face was so gentle, > >> The room in such disorder, > >> Not how I pictured > >> A United States Soldier. > >> Was this the hero > >> Of whom I'd just read? > >> Curled up on a Poncho, > >> The floor for a bed? > >> I realized the families > >> That I saw this night, > >> Owed their lives to these soldiers > >> Who were willing to fight. > >> Soon round the world, > >> The children would play, > >> And grownup would celebrate > >> A bright Christmas Day. > >> They all enjoyed freedom > >> Each month of the year, > >> Because of the soldiers, > >> Like the one lying here. > >> I couldn't help wonder > >> How many lay alone, > >> On a cold Christmas Eve > >> In a land far from home. > >> The very thought > >> Brought a tear to my eye, > >> I dropped to my knees > >> And started to Cry. > >> The soldier awakened > >> And I heard a rough voice, > >> "Santa don't cry, > >> This life is my choice." > >> The solider rolled over > >> And drifted to sleep, > >> I couldn't control it, > >> I continued to weep. > >> I kept watch for hours, > >> So silent and still > >> And we both shivered > >> >From the cold nights chill. > >> I didn't want to leave > >> On that cold, dark, night, > >> This guardian of Honor > >> So willing to fight. > >> The solider rolled over, > >> With a voice soft and pure, > >> Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > >> It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > >> One look at my watch, > >> And I knew he was right. > >> "Merry Christmas my friend, > >> And to all a good night." > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
If soldiering is like anything else, you get a better product when you pay
more. Don't let's get started on teachers, nurses, police officers, all kinds of municipal officers... This is the fast food, bargain basement, super size me country, and don't let's forget it. Right now Washington seems to be asking for an infinite military force capable of wiping every Islamic extremist off the face of the Earth. While I am somewhat in sympathy with this goal, I don't see how it is possible and I wouldn't give the lying bastards at the Pentagon a cent more unless they came out with a plan for scaling things down. I would make them all read the Tar Baby story too, and write a one page essay on what it is about. Everybody that knows me knows how I like to look at the dark side of things, but this is a serious cluster **** we are in right now. Heh, Sadaam Hussein is set for hanging, last thing I read. I hope at least they telecast it. Pay per view Al Jazeera? Earle "billy ray" <billy_ray@SPAMfuse.net> wrote in message news:88e28$459494a7$422afc51$16675@FUSE.NET... > Only one of the two main political parties regularly votes against pay > raises for the military. > > It is the same one that nominated a candidate who said only people too > stupid to get a job at McDonalds joined the military. > > This group is also the one that tried to disallow all the ballots from > deployed soldiers in the pas couple elections. > > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > > (8 > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > That really sucks. > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > >> Twas the night before Christmas > >> He lived all alone > >> In a one bedroom house made of > >> Plaster and Stone > >> I had come down the Chimney > >> With presents to give. > >> And to see just who > >> In this home did live. > >> I looked all about > >> A strange sight I did see. > >> No tinsel, No presents, > >> Not even a tree. > >> No stocking by the mantle, > >> Just boots filled with sand. > >> On the wall hung pictures > >> Of far distant lands. > >> With medals and badges, > >> Awards of all kinds, > >> A sober thought > >> Came through my mind. > >> For this house was different, > >> It was dark and dreary, > >> I found the home of a soldier, > >> Once I could see clearly. > >> The soldier lay sleeping, > >> Silent, alone, > >> Curled up on the floor > >> In this one bedroom home. > >> The face was so gentle, > >> The room in such disorder, > >> Not how I pictured > >> A United States Soldier. > >> Was this the hero > >> Of whom I'd just read? > >> Curled up on a Poncho, > >> The floor for a bed? > >> I realized the families > >> That I saw this night, > >> Owed their lives to these soldiers > >> Who were willing to fight. > >> Soon round the world, > >> The children would play, > >> And grownup would celebrate > >> A bright Christmas Day. > >> They all enjoyed freedom > >> Each month of the year, > >> Because of the soldiers, > >> Like the one lying here. > >> I couldn't help wonder > >> How many lay alone, > >> On a cold Christmas Eve > >> In a land far from home. > >> The very thought > >> Brought a tear to my eye, > >> I dropped to my knees > >> And started to Cry. > >> The soldier awakened > >> And I heard a rough voice, > >> "Santa don't cry, > >> This life is my choice." > >> The solider rolled over > >> And drifted to sleep, > >> I couldn't control it, > >> I continued to weep. > >> I kept watch for hours, > >> So silent and still > >> And we both shivered > >> >From the cold nights chill. > >> I didn't want to leave > >> On that cold, dark, night, > >> This guardian of Honor > >> So willing to fight. > >> The solider rolled over, > >> With a voice soft and pure, > >> Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > >> It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > >> One look at my watch, > >> And I knew he was right. > >> "Merry Christmas my friend, > >> And to all a good night." > > > > > > |
Re: Off Topic: Twas the night before Christmas
If soldiering is like anything else, you get a better product when you pay
more. Don't let's get started on teachers, nurses, police officers, all kinds of municipal officers... This is the fast food, bargain basement, super size me country, and don't let's forget it. Right now Washington seems to be asking for an infinite military force capable of wiping every Islamic extremist off the face of the Earth. While I am somewhat in sympathy with this goal, I don't see how it is possible and I wouldn't give the lying bastards at the Pentagon a cent more unless they came out with a plan for scaling things down. I would make them all read the Tar Baby story too, and write a one page essay on what it is about. Everybody that knows me knows how I like to look at the dark side of things, but this is a serious cluster **** we are in right now. Heh, Sadaam Hussein is set for hanging, last thing I read. I hope at least they telecast it. Pay per view Al Jazeera? Earle "billy ray" <billy_ray@SPAMfuse.net> wrote in message news:88e28$459494a7$422afc51$16675@FUSE.NET... > Only one of the two main political parties regularly votes against pay > raises for the military. > > It is the same one that nominated a candidate who said only people too > stupid to get a job at McDonalds joined the military. > > This group is also the one that tried to disallow all the ballots from > deployed soldiers in the pas couple elections. > > > "Dave Milne" <jeep@_removethisbit_milne.info> wrote in message > news:l0Wkh.22393$k74.22059@text.news.blueyonder.co .uk... > > One thing I never understand about the US - you constantly praise your > > military (with justification) and yet you pay them appallingly. > > A British raw recruit gets USD 23770 (US E1 gets 15272) and a Sergeant > > (8 > > years) gets 52267 (US E8 with 8 years gets USD 39504). > > That really sucks. > > > > http://usmilitary.about.com/library/...enlbasepay.htm > > http://www.armyjobs.mod.uk/RegularAr...Leave/Soldier/ > > > > Dave Milne, Scotland > > > > > > "L.W.(Bill) ------ III" <----------@cox.net> wrote in message > > news:4590CC0B.6D96A629@cox.net... > >> Twas the night before Christmas > >> He lived all alone > >> In a one bedroom house made of > >> Plaster and Stone > >> I had come down the Chimney > >> With presents to give. > >> And to see just who > >> In this home did live. > >> I looked all about > >> A strange sight I did see. > >> No tinsel, No presents, > >> Not even a tree. > >> No stocking by the mantle, > >> Just boots filled with sand. > >> On the wall hung pictures > >> Of far distant lands. > >> With medals and badges, > >> Awards of all kinds, > >> A sober thought > >> Came through my mind. > >> For this house was different, > >> It was dark and dreary, > >> I found the home of a soldier, > >> Once I could see clearly. > >> The soldier lay sleeping, > >> Silent, alone, > >> Curled up on the floor > >> In this one bedroom home. > >> The face was so gentle, > >> The room in such disorder, > >> Not how I pictured > >> A United States Soldier. > >> Was this the hero > >> Of whom I'd just read? > >> Curled up on a Poncho, > >> The floor for a bed? > >> I realized the families > >> That I saw this night, > >> Owed their lives to these soldiers > >> Who were willing to fight. > >> Soon round the world, > >> The children would play, > >> And grownup would celebrate > >> A bright Christmas Day. > >> They all enjoyed freedom > >> Each month of the year, > >> Because of the soldiers, > >> Like the one lying here. > >> I couldn't help wonder > >> How many lay alone, > >> On a cold Christmas Eve > >> In a land far from home. > >> The very thought > >> Brought a tear to my eye, > >> I dropped to my knees > >> And started to Cry. > >> The soldier awakened > >> And I heard a rough voice, > >> "Santa don't cry, > >> This life is my choice." > >> The solider rolled over > >> And drifted to sleep, > >> I couldn't control it, > >> I continued to weep. > >> I kept watch for hours, > >> So silent and still > >> And we both shivered > >> >From the cold nights chill. > >> I didn't want to leave > >> On that cold, dark, night, > >> This guardian of Honor > >> So willing to fight. > >> The solider rolled over, > >> With a voice soft and pure, > >> Whispered, "Carry on Santa, > >> It's Christmas Day, All is secure." > >> One look at my watch, > >> And I knew he was right. > >> "Merry Christmas my friend, > >> And to all a good night." > > > > > > |
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