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burtsr
 Junior Member
87 Posts
Chicago, IL
USA
Honda
2006 Gold Wing
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 Posted - 11/04/2009 : 7:38 PM
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I know is not motorcycle or safety related.
Lets not forget the meaning of Nov 11.
Thank a vet.
Burt
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radan2
Advanced Member
763 Posts
[Mentor]
Jacksonville, NC
USA
Moto Guzzi
2007 Breva V750 ie
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Posted - 11/05/2009 : 12:04 AM
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Since this is a motorcycle forum, may I suggest a concrete and very meaningful way to show appreciation for the veterans?
The Patriot Guard Riders was formed for the purpose of showing honor to veterans by respectful, non-violent, and non-confrontational means. It is free, and open to anyone whose desire is to show respect: bikers and non-bikers, veterans and non-veterans, of any political party or opinion group. Membership is free.
If you want more information,
http://www.patriotguard.org/
On the right side of the homepage is a list of current missions of the Guard. If you see one you can attend in your area, simply show up. If you sign up for membership, you will receive email notification of missions in your state, but it is not necessary to sign up--just show up. |
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burtsr
Junior Member
87 Posts
Chicago, IL
USA
Honda
2006 Gold Wing
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Posted - 11/05/2009 : 7:27 AM
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That is an excellent suggestion.
Burt |
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SkootchNC
Senior Member
326 Posts
[Mentor]
raleigh, north carolina
USA
Harley-Davidson
road glide
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Posted - 11/05/2009 : 9:27 AM
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quote:
Originally posted by burtsr
I know is not motorcycle or safety related.
Lets not forget the meaning of Nov 11.
Thank a vet.
Burt
If it wasn't for veterans.... there might not be this forum.... or this "leisure activity"
so??? yeah.. it's "forum related"
The PRG is a fine bunch, but there are events across the country, if you have time... find, and participate in a local event.
Frank |
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burtsr
Junior Member
87 Posts
Chicago, IL
USA
Honda
2006 Gold Wing
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Posted - 11/05/2009 : 7:51 PM
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Very disappointing. Over 200 people have looked at this and only two thought to say thanks.
burt |
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Texasphotographer
Advanced Member
746 Posts
[Mentor]
Copperas Cove, Texas
USA
Suzuki
2008 C50T
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Posted - 11/05/2009 : 8:18 PM
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The US Armed forces are taken for granted by most Americans. Troops are vunerable in war and unfortunately, on US soil. Today, a crazed Army Major shot and killed 12 soldiers and wounded 30 more on Fort Hood, TX. This guy was a Muslim and angry that he was soon to deploy to Iraq or Afghanistan. Initial reports said he was killed, but current news said he was shot, but has survived so we may know his motive for commiting such a trajegy.
God Bless our Armed Forces. |
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twc
Advanced Member
627 Posts
[Mentor]
Fort Collins, CO
USA
Harley-Davidson
Electra Glide Ultra
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Posted - 11/05/2009 : 8:20 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by burtsr
Very disappointing. Over 200 people have looked at this and only two thought to say thanks.
Perhaps your message was misconstrued. When I read it, I immediately thought of friends and family who have served and deserved that thanks face-to-face. Delivering that message personally (and I didn't need to wait for your prompting to do that) means a lot more than an impersonal post on an Internet forum, wouldn't you agree? |
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gymnast
Moderator
2211 Posts
[Mentor]
Meridian, Idaho
USA
Harley-Davidson
Sportster Sport
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Posted - 11/05/2009 : 8:44 PM
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The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month will always symbolize the sacrifice of life most precious of both our own and our allies, always remembered, forever young.
In grade school we learned a poem-
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row......
Google "lt Col John McRae, Flanders Fields" |
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galileo
Standard Member
128 Posts
Florence, Co
USA
Suzuki
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Posted - 11/06/2009 : 6:49 AM
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These are probably the most difficult wars in American history. Repeated long tours with somewhat indefinite return dates. And between tours, there are probably deployments in a support role. For every one in country, there are probably several elsewhere.
We can never thank those who are serving enough.
For something concrete to do, if you see a solder in a restaurant, pay their bill and don't say who did it.
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SkootchNC
Senior Member
326 Posts
[Mentor]
raleigh, north carolina
USA
Harley-Davidson
road glide
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Posted - 11/06/2009 : 7:02 AM
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quote:
Originally posted by burtsr
I know is not motorcycle or safety related.
Lets not forget the meaning of Nov 11.
Thank a vet.
Burt
quote:
Originally posted by burtsr
Very disappointing. Over 200 people have looked at this and only two thought to say thanks.
burt
Perhaps many are waiting for next Wednesday?
Perhaps many of us ARE vets, and it's unseemly to thank ourselves?
As TWC pointed out, you didn't say "everyone post their thanks to our vets" you reminded everyone to NOT forget the meaning of November 11th.
AKA Armistice Day, aka Veteran's Day
While I remember the parades of my youth, on this day.... I also remember that it was a solemn day of reflection. |
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Night Train
Moderator
942 Posts
[Mentor]
Sydney, Nova Scotia
Canada
Harley-Davidson
Softail and Touring
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Posted - 11/06/2009 : 7:17 AM
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In times of peace, we sometimes need a gentle reminder to observe Nov 11 and all that it means. To recall the sacrifices that have been made by those who have gone before and sacrificed so much so that we can enjoy our freedoms of today.
In todays world, I for one don't need a gentle reminder of Nov 11. It seems every day brings news that prompts me to give thought and thanks to so many that are sacrificing so much, as I go through my peaceful sheltered life.
The "Poppy Lady", Moina Michael, wrote a poem in November 1918 in response to Lt.Col. John MacRae's "In Flanders Fields". I think it is worthy of posting in this thread.
We Shall Keep the Faith
Oh! You who sleep in Flanders Fields,
Sleep sweet - to rise anew!
We caught the torch you threw
And holding high, we keep the Faith
With All who died.
We cherish, too, the poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led;
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies,
But lends a lustre to the red
Of the flower that blooms above the dead
In Flanders Fields.
And now the Torch and Poppy Red
We wear in honor of our dead.
Fear not that ye have died for naught;
We'll teach the lesson that ye wrought
In Flanders Fields.
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burtsr
Junior Member
87 Posts
Chicago, IL
USA
Honda
2006 Gold Wing
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Posted - 11/06/2009 : 8:04 AM
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OK, I'm sorry I guess I should have been a little more specific.
As a vet myself (Vietnam) I've always been a little uncomfortable when someone thanked me for my service. As I always feel many gave so much more. But, I've always felt that every vet, from every era, should get the recondition they deserve. A simple thank you usually suffices.
Burt |
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Indiana Randy
Moderator
1758 Posts
[Mentor]
Fort Wayne, Indiana
USA
Honda
2000 Magna V4 750
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Posted - 11/06/2009 : 9:10 AM
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Burt, also keep in mind that a visitor/guest can view the post, but can not reply until they become a registered member. 
To all people serving in our armed forces and all veterans and families of veterans; Thank you for your sacrifice and your service. |
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Niebor
Advanced Member
2793 Posts
[Mentor]
Highlands Ranch, Colorado
USA
Harley-Davidson
03' Superglide
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Posted - 11/06/2009 : 10:12 AM
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quote:
Originally posted by burtsr
OK, I'm sorry I guess I should have been a little more specific.
As a vet myself (Vietnam) I've always been a little uncomfortable when someone thanked me for my service. As I always feel many gave so much more. But, I've always felt that every vet, from every era, should get the recondition they deserve. A simple thank you usually suffices.
Burt
Now we're on the same page. I looked at the 200 views as 200 people that wanted to see what was said regarding our vets.
I am not a vet. I missed the draft by one year. I respect deeply the commitment our troops have and continue to make. In the perfect scenario, without injury or death, service disrupts careers and family life. I am grateful for that sacrifice. When normal risk of war is added, our soldiers come home maimed and in boxes. I add sadness for loved ones, and respect for the fellow soldiers left to deal with the loss of their friends.
For the Vietnam era vet, I am ashamed by the way you were ostracized by society when you came home. On behalf of those of us who think this was wrong, my apologies. As one citizen of a grateful nation, Thank you for your service! |
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SkootchNC
Senior Member
326 Posts
[Mentor]
raleigh, north carolina
USA
Harley-Davidson
road glide
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Posted - 11/06/2009 : 11:11 AM
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quote:
Originally posted by Niebor
I am not a vet. I missed the draft by one year.
Many fine young people voluntarily enlisted, even during the height of the Viet-Nam war. As well as any other war. |
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Texasphotographer
Advanced Member
746 Posts
[Mentor]
Copperas Cove, Texas
USA
Suzuki
2008 C50T
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Posted - 11/06/2009 : 5:22 PM
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Since we are talking about the sacrifices made by our military and their families, here is a typical response on a very atypical day.
I do not know the author, but the gentleman that sent me the email is a dear friend and a Copperas Cove, TX city councilman.
Here is a first-hand recount of the trajedy yesterday and how our soldiers reacted: I live 12 miles from Fort Hood.
highly of our troops.
I was at Fort Hood yesterday afternoon and got caught up in the events surrounding the shooting. I was in the Howze Theater to play my bagpipes as a processional to bring in the soldiers who were receiving their college diplomas from area colleges and universities. They have one big ceremony each November for all the soldiers who have completed their degree requirements. I play for them every year.
At about 1:30, I was sitting on the front row of the theater on the far left side. A side entrance to the theater was located directly to my left about three feet away. I heard three or four muffled pops and thought it sounded a little odd. Suddenly, the door near me flew open and a man fell into the theater with a gunshot wound in his back. I started for the man to see what was wrong but two NCOs jumped up and grabbed the man and laid him on the edge of the stage. One of them shouted Are there any medical personnel in the building? Two of the graduates ran to the stage, threw off their caps and gowns and began treating the man as best they could. They announced that his wound was not life threatening. As the man was being loaded onto a stretcher, five or six heavily armed civilian security personnel entered the back of the auditorium with their rifles and pistols pointing upwards. One of them shouted that everyone should take a seat immediately, and believe me, that happened very quickly.
They asked that all senior NCOs in the building proceed to one of the eight entry doors in the building, and again, that was done immediately. One the security guys ascertained that the wounded man being removed from the stage would survive, they walked across the front of the stage and slowly opened a door on the opposite side of the auditoriumone which opened out onto a parking lot that separated the Howze Theater from the Soldiers Dome where the rest of the shooting occurred. We could hear rapid gunfire coming across the parking lot. One of the security guys again shouted a request for any doctors and nurses in attendance, and about 15 people immediately moved to the door where the security guys were standing. I heard one of the security folks tell the assembled medical personnel that there were many wounded people in the adjacent building, and that they were needed to help out. The medical people were told to follow the security guys, keep low, and move quickly without stopping. There was no hesitation on their part, they just moved out to do their jobs.
There were three officers in the building, and to their credit they just got out of the way and let the NCOs handle the situation. I was extremely proud of the professionalism that everyone displayed. The only people complaining were the civilians who were there for the graduation ceremony, and soldiers continually moved among them to calm them down.
One interesting thing about all thisabout an hour after the shooting died down, the loud speakers all over the base started playing the old Cavalry bugle call called Recall. I have never heard that on an active duty base before, but apparently the soldiers knew what it meant, that they were to drop what they were doing and return to their units.
At about 7 p.m. they brought several cases of MREs (combat meals) and starting handing them out. I figured we would be there all night when that happened. However, about 30 minutes later, we were allowed to depart in small numbers. I had to pass through four check points before I reached FM116, and even after driving off the post, I had to negotiate two Texas DPS road blocks before being allowed to drive at highway speed to return home.
I hope you will all keep the families of the slain soldiers in your prayers. I know that the Good Lord was looking after methat shooter could just as easily have followed the wounded man into the theater, where he would have enjoyed many more victims. Anyway, that is a brief eyewitness report of what happened at Fort Hood yesterday afternoon.
Bill Herridge, W.M.
Gatesville Lodge #197
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Daddio
Senior Member
357 Posts
[Mentor]
Calera, AL
USA
Suzuki
Bandit 1250
Peer Review:
1
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Posted - 11/06/2009 : 8:59 PM
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The spirit of thankfulness towards our service men is live and well.
I had the pleasure of taking my youngest daughter to see her boyfriend graduate from Marine Corps basic training on Parris Island a month and a half ago. I had ulterior motives. I wanted to see how current Marines were being trained. The thing that struck me hardest was just how young the Drill Instructors were.
His parents, Grandparents, Aunt and younger brother also attended the ceremony. His grandparents live in a small town outside Vidalia, GA. On our way back to the homestead, we stopped in Savannah, GA for a late lunch/early dinner. We spent a bunch of time strolling around the historical riverfront. This newest Marine PFC was constantly being stopped and thanked for his service to our country. He was actually embarrassed for all the goodwill he received because he had not yet done anything - in his mind.
We spent the night at and near his grandparents. Next day before heading home we go to a local restaurant with the whole family. As we are getting done, the proprietor comes to our table and says, "The marine and his friend (my daughter) have had their meals paid for by the couple that was getting into their car."
People know. They remember their service, good or bad. For the most part I believe the veterans want a quiet salute. No big deal - we did what we thought was right.
I am proud for the attention to that young Marine - even though he has not done anything - yet. |
Edited by - Daddio on 11/07/2009 8:56 AM |
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johncrosby
Standard Member
140 Posts
West Malling, Kent
United Kingdom
BMW
R1200GS
Peer Review:
-1
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Posted - 11/07/2009 : 2:28 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by gymnast
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month will always symbolize the sacrifice of life most precious of both our own and our allies, always remembered, forever young.
In grade school we learned a poem-
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row......
Let's not forget that the first world war war is remembered in France and Britain as the most horrific loss of men in our history too. 2 million and 4 million for Britain and France respectively, whereas the American losses were comparatively modest 200k. As a percentage of our population that was 2% and 4% respectively for Britain and France or 0.2% for the US.
My European view is that remembrance day 11th November is primarily a European affair given the volume of blood our young men shed.
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Night Train
Moderator
942 Posts
[Mentor]
Sydney, Nova Scotia
Canada
Harley-Davidson
Softail and Touring
Peer Review:
1
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Posted - 11/07/2009 : 3:21 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by johncrosby
quote:
Originally posted by gymnast
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month will always symbolize the sacrifice of life most precious of both our own and our allies, always remembered, forever young.
In grade school we learned a poem-
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row......
Let's not forget that the first world war war is remembered in France and Britain as the most horrific loss of men in our history too. 2 million and 4 million for Britain and France respectively, whereas the American losses were comparatively modest 200k. As a percentage of our population that was 2% and 4% respectively for Britain and France or 0.2% for the US.
My European view is that remembrance day 11th November is primarily a European affair given the volume of blood our young men shed.
First of all, I don't think it appropriate to keep score on who had the most dead in any conflict. However, I find your numbers are somewhat inaccurate and in researching the subject, I have learned the following;
About 60,00 Canadians were killed in World War 1.
Canada, from the day Britain declared war, committed over 600,000 troops to the war effort. Their hard earned reputation as formidable shock troops was paid for in blood, as the British High Command drew fire from the home front over their gross misuse of Canadian boys in their campaigns. Of the 600,000 Canadians who fought, one forth were injured, and one in ten were killed.
Depending on sources and what you use, the number of Canadians killed in WW1 range from 60 000 to 70 000. The 70 000 includes the Newfoundlanders and those soldiers who died shortly after the war from their wounds, which totalled nearly by 1921, 10 000.
I certainly hope you will forgive us the luxury of paying tribute to those North Americans that gave their lives in your "European Conflict".
If I come across as being somewhat impolite it is because your post really peed me off. Furthermore had it not been for the Allies, you would be speaking German in England right now instead of English.
Edited: To remove some information that may have been inaccurate.
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Edited by - Night Train on 11/09/2009 5:16 AM |
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Axiom2000
Moderator
527 Posts
[Mentor]
Georgetown, Delaware
USA
BMW
R1200RT/ R1200C
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Posted - 11/07/2009 : 3:45 PM
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quote:
[quote]First of all, I don't think it appropriate to keep score on who had the most dead in any conflict. However, I find your numbers are somewhat inaccurate and in researching the subject, I have learned the following;
About 60,00 Canadians were killed in World War 1.
Canada, from the day Britain declared war, committed over 600,000 troops to the war effort. Their hard earned reputation as formidable shock troops was paid for in blood, as the British High Command drew fire from the home front over their gross misuse of Canadian boys in their campaigns. Of the 600,000 Canadians who fought, one forth were injured, and one in ten were killed.
Depending on sources and what you use, the number of Canadians killed in WW1 range from 60 000 to 70 000. The 70 000 includes the Newfoundlanders and those soldiers who died shortly after the war from their wounds, which totalled nearly by 1921, 10 000.
Approximately 5,520,000 soldiers of the allied forces died in World War 1, and about 940,000 of which were Americans.
I certainly hope you will forgive us the luxury of paying tribute to those one million North Americans that gave their lives in your "European Conflict".
If I come across as being somewhat impolite it is because your post really peed me off. Furthermore had it not been for the Allies, you would be speaking German in England right now instead of English.[/quote)
+1 could not agree more with these thoughts.
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Texasphotographer
Advanced Member
746 Posts
[Mentor]
Copperas Cove, Texas
USA
Suzuki
2008 C50T
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Posted - 11/07/2009 : 7:22 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by johncrosby
Let's not forget that the first world war war is remembered in France and Britain as the most horrific loss of men in our history too. 2 million and 4 million for Britain and France respectively, whereas the American losses were comparatively modest 200k. As a percentage of our population that was 2% and 4% respectively for Britain and France or 0.2% for the US.
My European view is that remembrance day 11th November is primarily a European affair given the volume of blood our young men shed.
Thank you Night Train for a perfectly worded post which reflects totally my sentiments.
The US entered the war for a variety of reasons. Here are some summaries of explanations given by WikiAnswers Contributors.
Submarine Warfare and the Lusitania
There were unauthorized German submarines along the US East coast. Germany's resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare in the spring of 1917 provided the final straw for US politicians, and America declared war. Canada, although independent of Great Britain and a great ally of the US felt the need to support the cause. There may be other reasons Canada entered the frey, but these are the main factors that I recall.
The first and foremost answer would be the sinking of the Lusitania, an British cruise/transport ship, bound for Britain from New York. The German U-boat ring sought to sink all supply ships headed for Britain in order to starve the island. It sank the Lusitania as part of its efforts. 1195 people died, including 128 Americans.
The Lusitania's sinking was the biggest influence on the American decision to enter the war. German submarine warfare (the Lusitania is included in this) sunk many ships over several years.
Had it not been for the Lusitania, the US would have stayed out of the War.
My father was wounded in WW1 and I am a veteran of combat deployments. We learned quite early in Vietnam that "body counts" are meaningless. Every country that lost its young during that and all wars must be proud of their sacrifices.
We have a saying here in the US and most likely Canada if you can read this, thank a teacher. If you can read this in English, thank a soldier. |
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