With a sober heart we pray

On this solemn Memorial Day

And recall those who gave their all

So that our Nation yet stands tall

So many wars and rivers of tears

Shed by mothers, fathers, and dears

They sacrificed their lives for us

As did our Lord … so long ago

Dear Lord, have mercy on those who serve

Love them, protect them, bring them home

Bless them Lord, and should they die

Take them home with you to abide.

For it is said, “ … no greater love than this

A man gives up his life for a friend.”

With this in mind, we must recall

Those who gave us … their all.

This post first appeared in American Thinker Marooned in No Man’s Land: A nursing home on May 13, 2020 and I thank them.

I now know what living was like for Robinson Crusoe….no, not shipwrecked nor floundered on some shoals. But a victim of cruel circumstances.

After decades of toil I retired. An over 55 retirement community became my destination.  Lovely grounds right out of a story book. Activities that would put a cruise ship to shame. Extensive dining room options. Farm to table. What could be better?

That is where the good part of the saga ends.

See, this over 55 retirement community comes complete with what is called  “continuing care”  “home care” “assisted living” – and what is known as a “nursing home.”

Thus all the mandates government imposed on “nursing homes” fell upon the entire community as well as the management wanting to keep us “safe” they…

Here’s a simply fascinating piece of history.

In addition to photographers and motion picture cameramen, the Marines also occasionally deployed audio technicians to combat operations. These guys (who were, needless to say, almost senselessly brave) carried bulky recording equipment into battle, sometimes even while wading ashore. The sound, of course, is tinny and crackly; the microphones weren’t equipped to pick up the thunderous drumfire of a bombardment, but you can hear rifle shots, machine guns, and the occasional *zip* of a bullet overhead as plain as day.

And the technicians weren’t just recording – they were commentating on what they saw, too, often with no more excitement than if they were describing a baseball game. (This, to me, is the most impressive feat of all.)

Here’s a recording from Iwo Jima – listen for the yell “Spread out, SPREAD OUT!” as they dodge incoming fire.

And here’s a famously dramatic…

Let’s see what mischief our fellow earthlings have gotten themselves into this week. It’s Saturday and time for a break and maybe a smile or two.

Animals and driving problems and general mayhem. Karl is back at with his usual missteps.

A few may need a couple of clicks. Page down for politics and/or check out the top posts listed on the right side of the page.

Be sure and check for sound.