Uranium Tipped Ordinances, Multiple Tours, and Brain Damage Hypothesized

There has been quite a bit written about our use of uranium tipped ordinance in the Middle East against the Iraqis, and our various enemies causing terrorist nuisances around the world. Personally, I don't have a problem with that, to hell with the enemy, and our job is to unite them with their so-called maker before they can make any problems for this great nation. War is no good, but if you're going to be in a war, you had better win it, and that means pulling out all the stops.
Okay so, that's where I stand on the use of these materials because they cut through armor and Earth like butter. We should be using the best of the best, and materials that work to ensure our strategic objectives in every single battle to fall in our favor, no matter what. Still, if we are using these types of weaponry in the battle space, and then putting our soldiers in harm's way, we also need to understand the potential eventualities and health hazards that come with that.
Slight radiation poisoning can cause all sorts of challenges with the human bio-system, including brain loss, cancers, and failures of vital organs. If US military personnel are in these battle spaces, and in and around depleted uranium expended ordinance, then we will have problems. Now then, let me go out on a limb here and ask a question; should we be surprised if some soldier or even our enemy loses rational thinking in future events because of the loss of mental faculties due to the use of such weapons?
My answer would be of course not, and I'm not pointing any fingers, but I'd like to bring up another point. CBS News had a segment on March 11, 2012 titled; "Obama shocked by Afghan shooting rampage," by Leigh Ann Caldwell. Okay so, President Obama is shocked? Really, because I'm not, not in the least, nor am I shocked with these other headlines;
CBS News had a segment on March 11, 2012 titled "Taliban vows revenge for Afghan shootings," by Mandy Clark
CBS News had a segment on March 12, 2012 titled "Shooting suspect from "most troubled" U.S. base."
Worse, it is interesting that the Taliban vows to revenge these Afghan shootings, when the shootings came from a soldier seeking revenge of attacks by the Taliban in the first place, supposedly over the destruction of religious works, Korans, which were burned because prisoners and members of the Taliban had written in the margins anti-American slander, and were passing information back and forth promoting hate and rationale as well as tactics and plans for killing Americans.
If this is just a war and a conflict about religious doctrine and revengeful hate going back and forth, then it will never end. Might I suggest that perhaps the only way to solve the problem and guarantee the protection of Americans is to eliminate the problem entirely and completely? In that case, I wonder if the soldier in question didn't come to that conclusion, and use his own firearm to serve that justice. These are unpleasant things to think about, but maybe it's time we did start thinking about such things, if we ever hope to solve our differences and problems.
Is it wrong to think the unthinkable, as far as I'm concerned war itself is unthinkable, and a needless waste of human lives, and certainly not be fitting for a species of such high intelligence, at the top of the food chain, and basically running the planet right now. Nevertheless, as I said before if we are going to have a war, we need to win it, and if we are willing to use the best weaponry to do that, then shouldn't we be willing to pull out all the stops and do what it takes to end the bloodshed by completing what we started. Please don't ever forget that on 9/11/2001 it was us in the United States who were attacked. I ask now; what have we accomplished?
Do we win the hearts and minds of those who hate us, or do we prevent them from ever trying to attack us again? If we can't convince them to be nice and get along in this world, and if this world isn't big enough for the two of us, then perhaps we need to start thinking the unthinkable, because that's exactly how they view us. Yes, that's not too politically correct, and you might have a problem with it, and I understand why, as I have a problem with it myself, and yet at some point we must realize the reality of the situation, and successfully protect our nation, and the American people. That comes first and foremost before anything else.

Crowd Sourcing Via Personal Tech Sensors for Potentially Harmful Substances

It seems that crowd sourcing is all the rage, and that makes sense because when you break very large and challenging problems into micro components, you get a little bit of work out of a whole bunch of people. But what if we got a whole bunch of work out of a whole bunch of personal tech smart phones?
Do you remember the SETI project where they allowed each individual on their giant network to donate their excess computer usage to help the processing of information? This distributive computing strategy allowed all of the participants to work as one giant supercomputer processing data. If you aren't familiar with the "SETI@Home Project" then you can look it up on the Internet.
Now then, what if we used a version of distributive computing, and crowd sourcing to provide a layer of protection against terror attacks on the United States of America - let me explain my plan, as I have in previous articles for the last 10 years, because I think this technology has now come to fruition, and we can make this happen. But first let me give you some background.
There was an interesting article recently on Homeland Security News titled; "Researcher develops highly sensitive, nanomaterial gas detector," published on March 12, 2012. It turns out a post graduate student at Rensselaer is using a graphene material sensor device to sense minute traces of hazardous gases. It might also be used to detect bomb materials for security. The article stated;
"He has created a device that is durable, inexpensive, and highly sensitive, and has created a range of new gas detectors for bomb squads, law enforcement officials, the military, and industry."
Okay so, what would I do with something like this? Well, I am glad you asked, because as I said above such a technology could save our nation from a terrible terrorist attack; we should put one of these little sensor devices embedded in every single smart phone. When it detects something, it would turn on the camera, and send a call out to the Department of Homeland Security Fusion Center alerting them of the GPS position, and the type of substance which was discovered.
They could then decide what the threat level was, and if it was something that needed to be taken care of right away. If it was just someone who was perhaps loading their own bullets at home, someone with a gun permit, it would be no big deal and skipped over, but if it looked like someone was putting together a bomb, or was at an airport, government building, or in a very populated place, then they could do something about it.
This means they can catch the terrorists while they were doing their bomb making, or while they were preparing to do a terrorist act. The uses in the battle space goes without comment, obviously it makes sense for that. For instance small lightweight UAVs, model aircraft size flying above the roadways in front of convoys, military personnel, or dignitaries. We need this technology, and we should use it to our advantage. And, perhaps we can do it in such a way where it doesn't disturb any innocent person's privacy. Please consider all this and think on it.

Innovative Dragon Skin Body Armor

New body armor designs are continuously being implemented, redefining the industry, and giving soldiers and law enforcement officers access to improved gear. Developed by Pinnacle Armor, Dragon Skin® is a certain type of body armor that provides the wearer with significant protection and upgrades against a host of ballistic weapons.
Dragon Skin® is incorporated in multiple products, including special knee armor and bullet proof vests. The knee pad version offers protection from armor-piercing ammo from handguns as well as high-velocity IED fragmentation. The chest armor looks a lot like an average bullet proof vest, with just the inside design unique. Small discs are connected and overlapped in an imbricated layout fashion, giving the appearance of what looks like dragon "scales." The ceramic and titanium blend material is highly flexible, bending and moving more than the human body is able to, while still offering the maximum protection.
Traditional ballistic armor that protects against armor piercing rifle rounds is usually really heavy and attaches to soft Kevlar® armor. After so many rounds the rigid ceramic plates tends to fracture and crack, leaving the soldier vulnerable to repetitive shot situations. Dragon Skin® has the capability of stopping multiple high-powered rifle rounds, while maintaining weightlessness and extreme flexibility. The layered design reduces trauma to the body by as much as 40 percent over standard hard armor, effectively dispersing the bullet's impact energy over a wider area than most other armors available.
In 2007 a test by Gunnery Sergeant R. Lee Ermey for the History Channel's program Mail Call trialed the vest with 150 9mm sub-machine gun rounds, and 20 AK-47 rounds. The latter test was undertaken with a mannequin from a distance of 20 feet, with none of the bullets actually piercing the vest. This test proved the manufacturer's claim that the vests will defeat substantial repetitive shots. Dragon Skin® was also showed in a 2007 episode of the Discovery Channel's Future Weapons: The Protectors. Another test of the armor featured multiple steel core, armor-piercing 556 mm and 762 mm rounds fired from an M-16 rifle at almost point blank range. As in the other television program, no bullets actually penetrated the vest.
Dragon Skin® has had its fair share of scrutiny as unreliable "body armor". These Bullet proof vests notably failed classified tests conducted by the U.S. Army in 2006. One test in particular showed that under extreme temperatures some of the disc had a tendency to dislodge. This made this brilliant vest ineffective against bullets. Also some rounds were also reported by Army officials as having penetrated the vest. Pinnacle Armor argued these claims and the Army took the most unusual step of releasing test results to the public in 2007. Despite the complete ban on Dragon Skin® purchases by the Army from March 2006 onward, it was reported by NBC News that elite forces in Afghanistan and Iraq, on VIP and General protection details, continued to wear these vests well after the ban was applied. This revelation, later confirmed by Army officials, added to the growing controversy and made arguments on both sides inconclusive. At the present, American-made Dragon Skin® armor is utilized primarily by soldiers in the U.S. Special Forces, approved foreign militaries, and police tactical teams. With costs significantly higher than that of Kevlar® and standard hard plate body armor, price may still be a significant factor in the overall limiting widespread military application of the Dragon Skin® product.

Are We Fighting With Our Hands Behind Our Backs in Afghanistan

Are our strategies of winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people failing? Are the people afraid to stand up against the likes of the Taliban or ways of corruption so common to that area? If we leave, will the warlord practices of 3000 years simply return, and will their big income cash crop go back to being poppies? Yes. Okay so let's talk.
A year ago, I was having this conversation with an acquaintance and they asked me if I thought the way we were using our military there was smart, and if I thought our leaders were undermining our efforts. The reason I bring this up now is due to the recent problems; Koran burning, revenge attacks, and massacre on civilian Afghans.
Indeed, I would submit to you that we are not using our military effectively, that they are NOT the department of peace. It is okay to use the US Military for "Disaster Relief" but that is our decision, not the UNs, and even with that said, at the end of the day the US Military is the greatest military ever assembled, we need to use it wisely!
It's not a joke, war is serious, don't do it unless you really need too. Right now unfortunately, we do need to. And if we don't we are indeed, setting the world up for WWIII by our appeasement. History repeats, the UN falls aside like the League of Nations, and then no one is talking, venting, carrying on, and the paranoia starts and some lunatic comes along and all hell breaks loose.
What am I trying to say here? Simple, sometimes winning the hearts and minds isn't enough, sometimes, and unfortunately you have to make a decision. Either you don't get yourself involved in the conflict at all, or you confront the problem head-on, take action, and get it over with. During 9/11 the United States of America was attacked, that is unacceptable to Americans, and therefore we took action. But as soon as we did, we were infiltrated by a neo-liberal socialist mindset of political correctness.
You see, they don't understand political correctness in their part of the world, nor do they care. They must be laughing at us for the way we beat around the bush to achieve our objectives, all the while they're taking advantage of the situation. We can't fight a war with our hands behind our back, and we are fools to try. What should we do from here on out?
Well, I'm not privy to all the information at the upper echelon levels of leadership, but I would submit to you that whatever they think they're doing, and what they are actually doing, well, it's quite obvious it isn't working. Please consider all this and think on it.

Autonomous Attack in the Battlespace - It's Coming and the Technology Is Evolving

Not long ago, there was a high-ranking Air Force Colonel who when asked by reporters about unmanned aerial vehicles, he said the science fiction notion of "Terminator type robots" fighting wars autonomously and going after humans on their own accord without being telerobotically tethered was nonsense, and pure fantasy. Well, seeing as I run a think tank, and know little bit about autonomous robotics, I have a hard time swallowing his statement, and therefore, I believe that he is a little naïve and doesn't know the technology, or he's hiding something - perhaps some of each or a combination of all three?
Perhaps, the Air Force does not wish to alarm anyone, or have them believe that unmanned aerial systems are going out and indiscriminately kill humans in the battlespace, or against terrorists without a human in the loop. Today, he's right, we aren't doing that, but it's not because we can't, it is because we haven't worked out all the bugs yet, but to say that we don't have the technology is nonsense. After all we have self driving cars that can go out and drive around for hours without hitting anything. Further, there are a lot fewer obstacles once you're in the air. Think about that concept for second.
Anyone who thinks that fully robotic and autonomous unmanned aerial combat vehicles are not coming to the battlespace soon is kidding themselves. Soon, fully autonomous attack robots in air, in the water, and on the land, who knows maybe autonomous tunneling bots too - will seek and destroy targets at will without being tethered electronically to human command and control.
Just look at some of the newest technology - for instance there was an interesting piece in MIT Technology Review recently and also a story on SpaceWar Online News titled; " Drones may be controlled by gestures," by Staff Writers, Cambridge, Mass. (UPI) Mar 15, 2012, which stated;
"Drone aircraft taxiing on a runway may someday be controlled by ground personnel using just standard gestures, U.S. researchers say. Drones can already land autonomously on runway or aircraft carrier flight decks, but humans control them during taxiing."
If the robot can sense and read gestures, eventually they will be able to sense if someone is pointing a weapon at them. If an individual attempts to attack the robot with a gun or weapon, the robot will be able to fire upon them. If someone fires a weapon, multiple swarming robots can triangulate the position, and immediately return fire, perhaps in the future with lasers, and eliminate said individual.
We have all the technology, all the math, and all the scenarios already figured out. In this case it would be just a matter of miniaturizing laser weapons. But all of this exists, right now today, so anyone that thinks it's science fiction fantasy at this point is living in the dark ages, doesn't know what they're talking about, or is hiding the facts from reality. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this and think on.

China Hacker Takes the Bait, Steals Intellectual Property Decoy Tech Manual - All Hell Breaks Loose

The year is 2020, and Northrop has just completed its total revamp protecting American infrastructure and military networks, along with all the government clouds and IT systems from cyber attacks from foreign hackers, hacktivists, and foreign military cyber warfare commands. There's been a lot of talk about the recent China Hacker case which caused an airliner to crash recently. Now the United Nations, the Council on Foreign Relations, and the latest Geneva Convention treaty wishes to change the rules.
It seems that Northrop had secretly put misinformation into military computer systems, and created a decoy cloud center. What they had done was put information in the system and detailed technical reports on how to create specialty carbon composite material with graphene coatings for the wings of high-performance supersonic aircraft. The Chinese have had a number of their military jets crash recently, coming apart in the air, but they didn't know why.
Military intelligence, at least at the upper echelon did have good reason to believe that they had taken the bait, downloaded what the Chinese Military Cyber Hackers thought was secret information, and incorporated into their manufacturing process for their new carbon composite fighter which was a larger copy and knock-off of the JSF F 35. Apparently, the state run aircraft airliner manufacturer, a new one which is competing now with Comac used that secret information in designing the aircraft wings for their latest high-tech airliner which showed remarkable efficiency in the flight tests for certification.
Unfortunately, when it was slightly overloaded and hit some very rough air while traveling around a Typhoon the wings ripped off and everyone perished. Another crashed after a hard landing ripping off the wings sending the aircraft into a ditch, and it burned up and everyone died from the toxic fumes from the fire. While they were investigating that crash, not realizing it was related to the other, a third crash happened in one of their largest aircraft which was designed to compete with the Aibus A380 and Boeing 747-8. The Chinese version is actually 22 feet larger in length, and 17 feet wider in wingspan than the A380 - but the Chinese airliner also came apart in midair - no one survived.
When it was discovered that Chinese military hackers had downloaded technical data at the decoy center which was misdirection, and that their manufacturing process was the cause of these crashes, it was determined that decoy centers for cyber warfare are no longer allowed to have misdirection. The Chinese claimed had they been able to steal the correct technology, their airplanes wouldn't have crashed, therefore it's the Americans fault. Of course Northrop defends its strategy, citing that the Chinese shouldn't have stolen that information in the first place, and therefore it's their fault.
The WTO claims that it is not in a position to render a decision on this, mostly due to the tension in the region right now, and therefore they are staying away from this controversy. It will be interesting to see what the United Nations, Geneva Convention, and the folks on the Council for foreign relations have to say about all this.

Body Armour Sportswear - The Answer to Your Questions

Primarily, resistant vests were created for men who are in constant battle with the enemies. In the old times, warriors wore those cumbersome metal plates to protect themselves from harm. But with the advancement in technology, newer and more modern designs of body armour sportswear evolved.
Not only that, ballistic vests are not only designed for men alone these days but also for women. The number of women employed in the military, army and other law enforcement agencies have skyrocketed over the years. Hence, improvement and enhancement are not focused only to men but also to women to ensure optimum protection.
People who have tried and donned bullet proof vest has a lot of questions, all the more those who are first timers and who are still searching for one. For sure, there are so many doubts, clarifications, and lingering fear as to where and what type of vest they should procure. More than that, they may still have doubts as to its efficiency and more.
To get rid of these fears and doubts and lingering questions or if not at least minimize your worries, let me show you the basic details you need to know about body armor.
1. You can have a customized bullet proof vest.
Since men and women are created differently, obviously both have different body built, needs, requirements and wants. Given that, it would be unlikely for men to be wearing a vest designed for females and vice versa. Thus, bullet proof vest are designed considering its body contour and bust part especially for those who have larger breast to ensure that optimum protection is provided.
2. Ballistic vest are created in various sizes.
People differ physically from looks to body built to height and even in needs. As such, bullet proof vest are engineered to fit different sizes of people. Sizes vary from small to 5XL, so no matter what your size is you are surely to find one with your perfect fit.
3. Body armor has 6 levels of resistance capacity.
Since not all require the same protection, NIJ has set 6 levels of protection capacity so that each individual's needs are accorded with correctly. Civilians need not buy those vests that are heavier. They can settle for a level 3A which are lighter and concealable. However, for militaries, armies and the like, they are required to wear level 3 or 4 body armour sportswear which contains ceramic or metal plates for sturdier protection.

Philip Juan G Ahlstrom is an expert in the field of Body Armour Sportswear. He is an ex military officer who aims to help individuals or troops especially beginners to understand the advantages of wearing bullet resistant vest and for learning all the how to's in this aspect. For superior quality and affordable products with NIJ certification and free shipping privileges, go to Bullet-Resistant-Vests online store.

A Deeper Look at the Tuskegee Airmen

The Tuskegee Airmen were the first all African-American squadron to fly for the United States Military. The majority of the men were African-American, but there were five Haitians who also took part in the Tuskegee Airmen squadron.
African-Americans were prohibited from flying for the United States, until various civil rights groups and organizations put pressure on the government to change the segregated policies.
The Tuskegee Airmen came out of Tuskegee, Alabama, and flew for the United States during World War II. Their official name was the 32nd Fighter Group or the 477th Bombardment Group. The Tuskegee Airmen still had to deal with racial discrimination and the Jim Crow laws in effect.
In March of 1941, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt took a flight with a Tuskegee pilot, C. Alfred "Chief" Anderson. Her flight with the African-American pilot brought a lot of publicity to the Tuskegee flight program for African-Americans. "Chief" Anderson had been flying for twelve years by then, and had trained thousands of pilots by that point.
After her flight, Eleanor Roosevelt arranged a loan for Moton Field, where the Tuskegee Airmen could train. The program began with 47 officers and 429 men. They first trained at Moton Field, and then went to the Tuskegee Army Air Field to learn about different kinds of operations. At that time, Tuskegee became the only section of the army where all four phases of pilot training were taught in one place.
The U.S. Army still had racial segregated policies in place, however. For example, before the Tuskegee unit, all the U.S. Army flight surgeons had been white. But the need for flight surgeons resulted in two black doctors being admitted to a Texan army school of aviation medicine in 1943. By 1949, 17 black flight surgeons had been with the Tuskegee Airmen.
Often at Tuskegee, African-American enlisted men were somewhat thrust upon the program and sent there in large numbers. Many trained officers were stationed there with nothing to do. The U.S. Army's rationale was that if African-American pilots were used in the Air Force, they would then serve over white men, which would wreak havoc on the existing Jim Crow laws.
Despite facing these racial difficulties, the men of Tuskegee were held in high regard. Many of the men involved in the program played key roles in postwar aviation developments, many teaching in flight schools. In 1995, HBO made a movie about these historic men.

Steven Myers is a Democrat in Orange County who is also a four-time CEO and founder of Steven Myers & Associates (SM&A). His work with various charitable organizations is widespread, and he also has various board leadership roles.

Is The Common Cockpit Theory and Mandate Irrelevant In the New Age of UAVs

Not long ago, I read a tragic story of an F-18 crash in Virginia Beach. The instructor and the student Navy pilot of an F-18 fighter plane had a catastrophic failure, were forced to dump all their fuel, and eject. The plane crashed into an apartment building. There were eight people injured on the ground, although not seriously, and no one was killed thankfully. Of course, the taxpayers lost a very expensive airplane, and the apartment complex went up in flames. Okay so, in considering this event, I have some thoughts which came to my mind on future technologies.
Perhaps you are aware of the common cockpit theory which states that all aircraft should be set up in a similar fashion, therefore a pilot can go from one aircraft to another and know where everything is without having to relearn the aircraft. It would be much the same as a laptop computer where all the specific keys on the keyboard were all the same. Or getting out of your car, and getting into a Rent-A-Car, and all the controls were the same, therefore you knew where the horn was, windshield wiper, parking brake, and you could reach for anything without looking. You can understand the safety factor involved here, and how this would increase safety in all regards.
Now then, consider if you will if that Navy training flight never occurred. Rather what if that student had been flying the simulator instead of the aircraft itself. Simulators are becoming more and more real these days, so it really wouldn't have mattered, they could've got most of their instruction while on the ground in a very real virtual reality environment, not to mention the fuel savings costs. That makes sense right? If the student pilot had flown Cessna's, Beechcraft's, or Piper's then all of those aircraft would have had similar cockpits with everything basically everything in the same place, or at least as close as possible if the common cockpit standardization ever comes to full fruition - that would be good right?
Still, it costs a lot of money to have common cockpits, and get every aircraft manufacturer to build everything exactly the same way. Not to mention that there will be aircraft built in China pretty soon and other nations as well. Getting everyone on the same page with that much standardization is a very difficult task. Nevertheless, it is a noble concept and a wise thing to do. Now then, in reasoning all this I wonder if it's even worth doing for military aircraft because in the future as an ever-increasing number of UAVs or unmanned aerial vehicles being built, humans may not be flying very many aircraft in the military in future anyway.
Indeed, perhaps we might consider the costs of up-grades, and standardization when everything is about to change anyway. Or we may realize that many of these UAV platforms might someday encompass a human pilot module, in which case the plug-in ports for that peripheral would in fact need complete standardization. Please consider all this and think on it.

Pre-Flight Robots for Distant UAV and Unmanned Forward Bases

Previously, I had written about one of the challenges in the modern battlespace concerning logistical challenges in UAV operations. You see, we have more and more UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) or UASs (unmanned aerial systems) doing surveillance, and strategic strikes on international terrorists and international pirates. Many of these faraway bases are out in the middle of nowhere, and it takes a lot to have a base with lots of personnel. The increased logistics to have the on-the-ground personnel at these forward bases costs large amounts of money for the military. Okay so let's talk about this for second shall we?
It is imperative that we run our military like Six Sigma - not only so that we continue to be the greatest fighting force in the solar system, and maintain our status as leader of the free world, and the ultimate superpower - but we also must be the most efficient, and we need to do everything we do at a reduced cost. Due to the decreased economic component currently there is less tax revenues coming into the government. This means that all the entitlements that have mushroomed over the years are cutting into our government's number one job, which is to protect the American people from enemies both foreign and domestic.
If we have unmanned aerial vehicles in faraway bases, we also need robots servicing those aircraft. We need to reduce the number of personnel. For instance the ground crew need not be run by humans. Refueling should be done by robots, tying down and securing the aircraft should be done by robots, and also preflighting the aircraft before takeoff and doing the preflight inspection should also be done by robots. We have the technology, we have the capability, and we have the money to do this. The question is do we have the political will, and will the Pentagon look here as a potential cost-saving reality?
You see, it makes sense to have UAVs or UASs that have longer hang-time and can hover over the battlespace for not just hours, but days, weeks, or even months - but it also makes sense where ever those aircraft are based to have robotic preflight systems. Another item that has been talked about is bringing back nuclear powered aircraft. That's actually possible, and with the new technology we have today, and the new materials is totally feasible. In doing so however, it makes even more sense to have robotic inspection aircraft looking over the vehicle rather than actual humans, if nothing more for safety in case of radiation leakage.
The tie-down area would have Geiger counters, and the inspection robots would make sure that the air-craft structure is sound, and the aircraft after flying for months on end, or perhaps years are now ready to fly again. Perhaps the nuclear powered craft would be a lighter-than-air craft or almost lighter-than-air using its forward momentum to do the rest of the heavy lifting. This makes sense. Who knows, maybe they are already doing this - wouldn't surprise me much, as that's what I'd do.
Indeed, I'd like you to consider the need for unmanned ground vehicles which work as inspection robots. In fact, we could use these aboard aircraft carrier for regular aircraft reducing the number of seamen needed for the support crew, and all sorts of other things as well. Once these robots are configured, the applications are endless. They could be used for security, pipeline inspections, securing our infrastructure, and also on the flight line - not only for military aircraft, but also to save money for airlines, which also need to save money without hurting their excellent safety records - yes, and other industries. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this.

The Ultimate Solution To Al-Shabaab Problem

If an injury has to be done to a man it should be so severe that his vengeance need not be feared. Niccolo Machiavelli.
In his book The Prince, Machiavelli puts it as it is, and in the current situation with the Al-Shabaab, I don't see any better way to approach the onslaught. I tend to take a very strong position since we are talking about Kenyan lives on the streets, in buses, pubs, offices, among many other public places.
At this juncture, the entire government and the public must exhibit the strongest resolve to continue at all costs with the incursion without retreat or relaxing their methods for we have no other option now, our patience has been stretched to a breaking point. The slightest sign of respite will give the enemy the indication that their attacks on our civilian population has scared us and that we have no spine to go on and the problem will escalate.
In Somali:
- The military should do their job thoroughly and vigorously with the sole aim of squashing the insurgents.
- Intelligence sources should clearly elucidate on the structure of the militia and their bases so as to facilitate destabilization and complete disorientation.
- As soon as the advancing army captures any ground from the enemy, the TFG must occupy and strongly guard it so as to sequester the rebels in one area in addition to taking control of their country.
- The incursion should be quick to minimize casualties on the Kenyan army. In The Art of War, Master Sun implored on the necessity of quick attacks when he said "When you do battle, even if you are winning, if you continue for a long time it will dull your forces and blunt your edge."
In Kenya:
- The Kenyan Somali population should openly and boldly show their support of the offensive and willingly contribute to stopping the terrorism in Kenya.
- From the grenade attacks in the very recent past, we clearly are headed the Israeli- Palestine way, these calls for contingency plans by the government, local authority and the public. We must at all times be prepared for the attacks. Adequate public awareness and training is much overdue, the population has to know what to do and what not to do when attacks occur and even what to be on the lookout for.
- Evidently, we don't expect to flush out those who have already acquired the Kenyan national IDs and passports illegally, we will be accused of so many ills including racism. However, we can correct our ways from now onwards as follows:
i) Since the immigration ministry is a high security sector of the government, ALL the staff from the top must be vetted for absolute integrity before any appointment since our borders are in their hands and citizenship is acquired through them.
ii) Regular transfers should be in their program to minimize issues of personnel getting too familiar with one post as this breeds corruption.
iii) Since the Administration Police already have the RBPU (Rural Border Patrol Unit), their numbers should be increased and adequate resources allocated so that they can patrol the long permeable boundaries with Somalia and Ethiopia. These officers should also be scrutinized and monitored for extreme integrity with redeployment to regular duties at the slightest sign of dishonesty.

American Special Forces: Not So Secret Anymore

In recent years American special forces have garnered a lot of attention. In the past the military preferred to keep their operations, military equipment and even uniforms a secret.
Types Of Specialized Combat Groups
-Navy Seals
-Army Rangers
-Delta Force
-Coast Guard Deployable Operations Unit
-Many Other Tactical Groups
Uses Of These Forces
The forces listed above each have a specific purpose. There's groups for land invasions, water rescues, aerial insertion and other clandestine activities. Different night vision and other military gear is implemented by each as well. One well known example of their exploits is that of Seal Team Six, which used state of the art stealth helicopters to assassinate Osama Bin Laden in 2011.
Supporting Our Troops
With most of the combat units being highly recognizable, people want to buy merchandise and other memorabilia. This doesn't just help spread the word, it also helps support the troops. Enthusiasts have a lot to choose from in terms of clothing and real military equipment.
Equipment And Merchandise Available
Items that regular civilians and veterans choose to purchase include night vision, surveillance equipment, knives and swords, Military T-shirts and gifts, footwear, survival gear, flags, banners, hats and so much more. Many family and friends choose to purchase such items because it shows that their loved ones are fighting for their country.
Becoming A Member Of Special Operations
Most members of these black ops units were required to already be enlisted. After a certain period of time, and after having shown exemplary dedication, they can apply for a particular group. Failure rates are great and only individuals with specific qualities will succeed. Here's a list of unique qualities needed.
-Ability to withstand extreme physical exertion.
-Maintain composure during times of mental duress.
-Leadership capabilities and team working skills.
-Ability to achieve high level security clearances and pass background checks.
-Absolute loyalty to their country and military division.
Preparing For Training
Most potential candidates choose to train hard long before they must actually take the special forces tests. Since exams are both physically and mentally exhausting, extreme training is usually required for any chance of passing. Doing the following may help.
-Run up to 8 miles 5 days a week.
-Weight train 3 to 4 days per week.
-Train with relevant military equipment like surveillance technology, survival gear and weapons.
-Prepare mentally for harsh situations
Training is the most important part of becoming ready for the special forces. Candidates should prepare themselves both mentally and physically for grueling exams. The rewards to passing and becoming a member of an elite group are many. Both a person's country and family can be proud of such an achievement.

Criticality of Accuracy in the Military

In the millennia since missile weapons were introduced to warfare by man, astounding technological developments have been made. Mankind has progressed from slinging rocks to firing missiles, with research in high-energy lasers and electromagnetic railguns promising a new era of destruction from range. While a rock and a laser might not seem to have much in common, parallels can be drawn between the basic principles by which these weapons have been, and will continue to be, employed.
Inevitably, projectile weapons led to the development of armor. Perhaps even more inevitably, improved armor spurred the development of improved projectiles and projectile delivery systems, and vice versa. Tactics which emphasize the strengths of one or exploit the weaknesses of another particular factor of a weapon system or target have been theorized, tested in practice, refined under fire, and discarded upon the introduction of a new weapon, tactic, or strategy that renders the previous way of thought less effective.
One constant has remained through the years, though - the requirement for those projectiles to be on target. History provides us with countless examples of actions which were decided, in whole or in part, by the delivery of accurate fire, from arrows to bullets to guided missiles. Many more actions proved indecisive because of a failure - sometimes on both sides - to connect with their intended targets. In this article, a selected few examples from history will be examined with a particular focus on the criticality of accuracy.
The Hundred Years War: Crécy and Poitiers
From 1337 to 1453, France and England fought a series of terribly destructive wars over control of the French throne, and thus, French territory and treasure. Though punctuated by periods of relative peace, the term "Hundred Years' War," as was later coined by historians, is an accurate one.
Nine years after the war started, in 1346, the English army had just avoided being trapped by the French between the Seine and Somme rivers after landing in Normandy. Outnumbered by the French and their allies, but given the opportunity to select the ground from which he faced his enemy, King Edward III of England placed his men on high ground with terrain features protecting his flanks and the soon-to-be-setting sun at his back.
The English were heavily dependent on the longbow and the men who were skilled in its use, while the French were heavily dependent on armored cavalry. Although the French had archers and the English had cavalry, each put great emphasis upon the units which their armies were built around.
Having pursued the English for weeks, but more specifically, having marched for most of the day upon which the battle of Crécy took place, the French and their hired Genoese crossbowmen were understandably fatigued. Finally faced with the prospect of battle after pursuing the English for so long, though, the French knights were eager to face their foes.
For their part, the English were also tired from their travels, but as they had stopped first, they were given more of an opportunity to rest. Indeed, contemporary accounts state that the English longbowmen were sitting on the ground until the very moment that they were required to engage their enemies.
The French knights ordered the Genoese crossbowmen to fire at the English; this first volley was entirely ineffective, falling short due to a combination of factors: wet bowstrings from the morning rain and a failure to properly judge the distance to their target. It wasn't until after this volley that the English longbowmen rose, strung their bows with dry strings, and fired volley after volley into the Genoese lines.
While the English longbowmen fired from behind protective emplacements, the French and the Genoese were out in the open, and the English volleys were devastatingly effective against the crossbowmen. Disheartened, the Genoese attempted to flee, but were cut down by the French knights, who were disgusted with their performance.
This action further fatigued and disorganized the French, still mounted on horseback, who proceeded to charge across open fields towards the English. While the range had previously afforded the English longbowmen the luxury of massed volley fire against the crossbowmen, the approaching knights, though slowed by their armor and the muddy fields they were crossing, required more accurate shots.
Their armor being insufficient to stop the longbowmen's arrows, and their horses being lightly armored, many French knights and men-at-arms were cut down before they ever reached English lines. Those that did were fatigued and disheartened. Although fighting continued, the battle was in effect over before a single sword or axe connected with a foe.

Combat Body Armor - Your Personal Protection

Every human being longs to be safe in their endeavors no matter what they do, regardless whether they are at work, at home, or even when camping. So much so if your work is constantly associated with risky situations like gun assault. Militaries for instance, need to wear combat body armor to ensure safety especially when they are in battle.
Each of these men must personally see to it that they are well protected wearing the proper body armor at the same time adept in self-defense strategies. Soldiers must not rely on their ballistic vest alone. Wearing one is not a guarantee to save oneself without knowing the basic facts of self-defense. You must be vigilant, alert, aggressive, fast, calm and shrewd especially if your work is regularly under pressure.
Any ballistic vest is your personal protective clothing. This is designed to repel projectiles of different strength or ballistic impact. Hence, bullet resistant vests are also categorized in six different levels set by the National Institute of Justice to suit the types of ammunition available in the market today.
Therefore, every person, profession, or task may necessitate different types of vests also. Militaries on field, police enforcers and civilians apparently are exposed to different degree of threats. Thus, it will be impractical to be wearing the same type or level of protection if you don't need it, right? As such, NIJ has set a standard to suit the variability of need of each individual. Not only will they be wearing what is appropriate but they can also save a lot of money. Remember, the higher the level of the vest the more expensive it becomes also.
It will look ridiculous for a civilian to be wearing those bulky resistant vests or put on some extra plates when going to the office. These types of individuals may require lighter and much thinner protection than men in the armed forces. The advancement in technology brought about the latest development of lighter and concealable bullet proof vest.
Unlike medieval times, combat body armor is no longer as cumbersome as it used to be. These gears are lighter and equipped with extra pockets for added protection and for other accessories like grenade or radio. Whenever, higher protection is required, plates will then be inserted into the pockets to meet the desired level of ballistic resistance. The highest level of resistance is able to deflect projectile impact of most lethal ammunitions such as AK-47 and INSAS.

Soft Body Armor - Procurement Responsibility of Law Enforcement Agencies

It was found that police executives rarely prioritize the procurement of soft body armor probably because of the notion that wearing one can be tiring and uncomfortable. Body armor used to be heavy and bulky which is very distractive while on the job especially to police enforcers. Gladly in 1960's, Du Pont scientist discovered a new fiber called Kevlar. However during that time it was not given much attention neglecting to recognize the potential of this material to bring a lot of changes in the improvement of protective gear especially in the police community.
The National Institute of Justice together with the US army developed a prototype using this new fiber. The prototype underwent various testing and was proven to be effective. It was first proven in action during a robbery in Seattle last December 23, 1975 wherein retired police Officer Raymond Johnson was shot by .38 caliber bullets. He was shot in the chest twice and one in his hand. After that miraculous survival, more than 3000 officers seek to wear ballistic vest. Consequently, they were also able to experience the same benefits.
Nonetheless, despite the benefits and promising efficiency of bullet proof vest towards projectiles not all are convinced to wear such protection. The reason being, bullet resistant vest is too expensive, uncomfortable, hot, and ultimately limiting the wearer's ease of mobility.
Good thing, soft body armor is now using lightweight materials. These materials brought the advent of thinner and lighter bullet proof vests which are now favorably worn by many, providing the same protection as that of the bulky and heavy types of vests worn by militaries.
In order to keep the resistance capacity of a vest functional, each gear is categorized according to the different levels of protection which NIJ has set. Those who may need more protection may get higher levels while others who require minimal protection may choose the lighter ones. The standardization of the level of protection benefited each individuals or organization in promoting uniformity and the provision of accurate ballistic vest to organizations or agencies.
To encourage law enforcement officers to procure ballistic vest, IACP and DuPont entered into a partnership in 1987 geared towards promoting the importance of wearing bullet proof vest. This partnership aims to minimize law enforcement casualties and disabilities by encouraging them to wear one by providing solid and substantial documents of its effectiveness. Another is to recognize those individuals who were saved and have eluded life-threatening situations or possible disability in order to coax others of its advantages. Lastly, it is their objective to collect important data with regard to different incidents and surviving officers and how they were saved by the use of soft body armor.

Finding a Competent Body Armour Outlet

A body armour outlet plays a vital role in the bullet proof vest industry. Although it is indisputable that not all outlets are trustworthy, there are also a handful of them that are reliable. Make sure that they carry NIJ certified products, durable and are priced appropriately.
Just remember not to be wheedled by low prices. Life is so precious to let it be compromised because of cost. Make sure that the supplier can provide you what you need, vests labeled properly, NIJ certified and tested.
Do not be beguiled by overrated advertisements as well. It is best to find out yourself through reviews, recommendations and friends who may have ordered from the same outlet. Firsthand information is better than just mere advertisements. You know how it is in business. They will design and create the best advertisement to lure clients from buying. As such, it is advisable for buyers to pay close attention to detail.
When searching for competent suppliers, here's what you need to do:
1. Searching for one can be a grueling experience not because they're only a few of them but it's actually the other way around. The number of distributor for bullet proof vest is abounding and they seem to offer almost the same line of products with the same quality and a few differences in price. To avoid getting into deep confusion, limit your choices to two or three outlets. However, pay attention to all potential suppliers and choose the top three only.
2. Find time to research the top online suppliers prior to making your choice. Since internet is the best and fastest means to find excellent options, it is best to utilize this approach. You can learn a lot from a number of suppliers in just a short time. You can also ask around for suggestions and recommendations from people who are satisfied with their bullet proof vest.
3. Once you have picked your top three suppliers, ask for their addresses and telephone numbers. If possible, pay them a visit personally. It is the best way to ensure that you have chosen the right supplier. Personally seeing, touching and checking the vest you want to buy is still the best way to find out its reliability.
4. Whether you are in their store or just communicating with them online, do not hinder yourself from asking if their vests are NIJ certified and have completed the testing requirement. Ask anything that you want to know before the actual purchase to avoid regrets. Ask about the labels, the fit, the maker, and so on. Compare all the information you have gathered among the top three choices.

The Amazing Life of Sir Edward Weary Dunlop

One of the most favorite Australian heroes is Sir Edward Weary Dunlop, nicknamed "Weary". However, his nickname is a total opposite to the role he played in the lives of many people during the Second World War. Sir Weary was endeared by many because he never ceased to be compassionate and concerned more of the welfare of other people than himself.
Before he enlisted into the Australian army, Edward Weary Dunlop was a student of medicine and studied in the prestigious University of Melbourne. When he graduated, he was decorated with honors of excellence in pharmacy and medicine. During his years in the University, he joined the institution's Rugby Club. He performed well in his athletic life while consistently gaining above average marks in his academics. He became the first Victorian-born player to ever represent the Wallabies.
Weary was also a school cadet and continued to work part-time for the military until he relinquished that responsibility at some point because he could no longer juggle his commitments. The pressure from his pharmacy studies made him quit his part-time service to the military in 1929. However, he re-enlisted in the year 1935 and was commissioned to work for the Medical Corps, where he worked as a surgeon holding the rank of captain. He then went to London by boat and continued his quest to further his medical knowledge. It was in London where he met other established and distinguished medical practitioners like Professor Grey Turner and Sir Thomas Dunhill, who became Weary's inspiration to do better in his profession.
In the following year, the Second World War broke out and Sir Edward Weary Dunlop was appointed to the medical headquarters located in the Middle East. There he formed the mobile surgical unit. He provided assistance to many people who were afflicted by the war until he was withdrawn to defend his homeland. However, the troopship he boarded docked on Java, Indonesia because of an attempt to augment the forces situated in the area.
Weary became a Japanese POW in 1942, along with the hospital he was stationed at. Later he was transported, along with other POWs to Burma-Thailand, where they were forced to work on a Japanese-envisioned railway from Thailand to Burma.
During this time, Sir Dunlop's leadership skills were put to the test. He was appointed to decide which of the prisoners were fit to work and who weren't. But such a decision to make was too heart-wrenching for him, seeing how the prisoners were pushed to work despite their pitiful conditions. Food was inadequate all the time, and yet they were still compelled to work more than the strength they could muster.

Discover All About Security Guard Training

Numerous men and women are interested in security guard training. A security guard is a person who is employed in various places to protect public or private properties as well as people. Alternatively called a security officer, a security guard's job mainly requires his or her physical participation. He or she is paid to detect unlawful actions or crimes committed by thugs and bad people. A guard is a trained professional who also has a responsibility to detect and report catastrophes such as fire, explosions or riots. To enhance the security officer's service delivery, some companies install video cameras and advanced alarms. In some countries this professional is called a watchman and is not very highly regarded or trained.
However in the U.S, and other developed countries, security officers are very important people in the development of the economy. Security guard training enables students to gain skills that are required in real work-related scenarios. They are equipped with the right tools that would enable them to participate in various sectors of the economy. They can be employed in industries, homes, schools, churches, airports, ports, hospitals, companies, and many other areas of the economy. Security agents can either be hired by the government as civil servants or by private security companies. They however need to be certified and licensed prior to seeking employment.
The kind of training received by the security guards in various States allows them to perform various tasks depending on where they find a job. A few of them work in a place where they meet with many people such as airports. Their role is to control the crowd's traffic and detect items that are meant to cause harm. Some security guards stand at the main gate of a big establishment such as an industry and their work is to initiate entry and exit for the authorized people only. Others participate in scheduled patrol routes, in shifts, and their role is to watch for any fishy activities. In some jurisdictions the security officers are allowed to collaborate with the police to maximize safety.
Their role is mainly to alert the police if they notice any illegal or strange activity, strange weaponry or catastrophic happenings. Security guard training is very important because it helps one to acquire skills and tactics needed in all the job scenarios described above. To qualify for the training, an aspiring student has to have certain personality traits. This job requires a lot of physical and mental alertness. Moreover, one has to have excellent communication skills to help him or her report dangerous or suspicious activities quickly and eloquently. Good interpersonal skills are also necessary because they can help an officer know how to relate with fellow workers, general public and distinguished guests he or she may come into contact with.
Quick thinkers and action takers can do well in the training than slow thinkers and actors. Since these professionals are expected to be highly accountable anyone who wants to be accepted in security guard training must be very mature and focused. Team work skills might become necessary when the guards have to coordinate with other to satisfy a given client. Self-supervision abilities are handy when a guard is expected to work alone throughout the night or day. This career can be valuable to people who want to earn a good living, save lives and protect properties. The salary ranges between twenty thousand to forty thousand dollars a year in the U.S. Any person looking to train in this field can find several schools that provide training all over the U.S and they use certified instructors. The internet can help one in the search.

Job Hunting 101: Develop Your Elevator Speech

When you attend a job fair or meet people that ask "What do you do" or "Who are you" do you stumble over your words? If you are shaking your head "yes" you are not alone. Many people do not know how to state who they are or what value they provide a potential employer. You must get comfortable reciting your elevator speech. If you do not know what you do how will someone else know that you are the right fit for the job?
Your elevator speech can be broken down into three easy to relate items.
1. Who are you? - state your name followed by - are you a military veteran, business owner, college graduate? Think about what words describe you. Example - I am Jaynine Howard, a military veteran with over 20 years administrative and leadership experience and over ten years experience as a Domestic Violence/Rape Advocate. I have my Masters Degree in Psychology.
2. What job do you want? Example - I am seeking a job as a Director of a mental health facility or I am looking for a job in the defense industry or medical field.
3. How do you help - what value do you bring to the company? In this statement you will want to be specific on what you can do to help the business. This can be in the form of increasing revenue, developing strategies, managing personnel etc. If possible try and quantify your statement. Depending upon your industry it may be that you bring your outgoing personality and zest for life to the job each day. Example - I am really good at revamping office procedures so that production is increased and manpower is reduced bringing added revenue to the company.
The most common mistakes job seekers make are being nervous, unprepared and lacking confidence in stating what they do; this is why you need your elevator speech. You will want to practice it and refine it until it is comfortable and authentic for you to say. Do not be embarrassed to sell yourself. Also, be sure and make eye contact and SMILE as you present your elevator speech.
If you are job hunting in a few different areas you will want to have an elevator speech prepared for each niche. I suggest researching the company and the job openings so you can tailor your elevator speech to the company and the job opening. Again, the goal is to present you as the only ideal candidate for that job.
You can also recycle your elevator speech and type it out and use it as your email tagline. Place it below your signature line along with your point of contact information such as your email address and phone number. This will allow others to see that you are job hunting, learn who you are and provide job leads.
Your elevator speech will help you rediscover who you are, what job you want, and the value you will bring to the employer. When you master your elevator speech you will be prepared to attend job and career fairs with confidence.

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Conspiracy Theory

This is not about the 1997 American action thriller starring Mel Gibson and Julia Roberts. This conspiracy theory is about the recent Army Chief and Government faceoff that has silenced India with awe and disbelief. Disbelief because, the people of this nation who are already reeling under the corruption menace involving most (not all) government officials, didn't in their wildest dream expect a character assassination of the most respected arm of Defence, the Army. From officials of the highest rank to a peon, most in the government undoubtedly are corrupt. In fact, this has become more like a daily soap in which, every day there is a new minister or bureaucrat caught in a mega scandal. But how should people react when reports of a corrupt Army makes headlines in national newspapers? This is certainly no daily soap! Perhaps while people are already getting used to scandals involving government officials, and have left it to fate and the judiciary for justice, the news of scandals involving the army certainly dropped like a bombshell.
When employees in the government sector want to take up an issue/ concern with the government, be it with their salaries or any other crisis, they walk down the streets protesting against the issue. But it certainly isn't the same for our defence forces. Even if they want to, neither the 'jawans' (In English translation it means 'soldiers') nor personnel in the military can rise up in protest against the Army Chief to fight corruption. Sadly, in spite of the muck at the top, jawans selflessly lay down their lives for the country, assuring its people a goodnight sleep. The politics being played out at the top level between the Defence and the Government bodies is belittling the work that our young boys and girls in the defence forces do to protect us. The only way we can thank our defence personnel for their selfless work is by continuing to support them. Salutations to each one of them!
The Showdown
Faceoff between the Army Chief and the Government started with the age row in which the Army Chief dragged the Government to the court claiming to be an entire year younger than that recorded in the official books. Rather than settling this age row by taking the government in confidence, the entire issue was sadly played out in public.
In a few weeks, out of the blues, the Army Chief revealed about the bribe of Rs.14crore that he was offered in Year 2010 by the former Army Chief to clear a contract for purchase of sub-standard trucks. This was immediately followed by another blow in which a supposedly confidential letter to the Prime Minister of India citing deficiencies and obsolescence in our military capabilities got leaked through some unknown source, and subsequently also got played out in public glare. These revelations by the Army Chief didn't only put the Defence Minister and the Government in a tight spot, but people were clueless about what's going on with the defence arm that is responsible to protect them.
This was not less that there came another blow when a military coup rumour was in the air which reiterated about the unauthorised 'movement of troops' towards Delhi in January this year. Of course the Army Chief, Defence Minister, and the Prime Minister were quick enough to extinguish flames of this 'absolutely stupid' story. More importantly, it was very important for the media to stop dragging this issue in public. Thank God, the courts banned media from playing out the "movement of troops" story far too much. We cannot make 'breaking news' out of national confidential information for God sake. The executive, legislative, judiciary, media and the people are bound by secrecy, and we cannot resort to washing dirty linen in public by jeopardizing the national security of our country. Opportunism will not only deface us from the rest of the world but also make it easy for our neighbours to believe that India is not ready to defend itself and that we are a disintegrated lot.
Having said all that, it is so discouraging to see how we are so busy collecting hi-tech military artillery and equipments and even going breathless bragging about our state of the art military capabilities. Yes, we need to be prepared to defend ourselves 24x7, 365 days a year. But I also wish that we and the rest of the world that we are competing with also spend the same time and money to build relationships.

Military Universities Help Veterans Re-Acclimate

For veterans who have recently returned home from Iraq or Afghanistan life will be strange. After months or years surviving in a foreign environment and facing daily life or death situations, returning to a normal life here in the States will be at least, a culture shock. These soldiers have been through experiences that have changed them. The emotional stress and for some, the physical injuries sustained during active duty will permeate every aspect of their lives. Few veterans can simply pick up where they left off before deployment. For many the excitement of seeing loved ones and returning to a safe and welcoming home is mixed with anxiety about the future.
Perhaps the most unexpected matter veterans have to face upon their return is how much life has changed at home. Children have grown, family dynamics have changed and the normal life they once knew is never exactly the same. Fortunately government agencies at the federal, state and county levels are more capable now than ever before to help service men and women re-acclimate. Veterans administrations offer free, extensive counseling to help soldiers work through post-traumatic stress as well as emotional difficulties associated with returning home. Government funded job centers provide assistance with resume preparation, sharpening interview skills and offer preferential job placement for veterans. Financial benefits are also available to help with living expenses while veterans prepare to re-enter the workforce.
Many veterans will choose to return to school to either learn a trade, earn a four year degree or enter a graduate degree program. In most cases veterans are entitled to full compensation for tuition expenses. Military benefits are designed to allow veterans to pursue an education in their preferred field of study for little to no cost. Depending on the college or university, veterans can secure a Bachelor's, Master's or PH.D degree compliments of the US Government. Not surprisingly, the popularity of accredited Military Universities has increased with so many service men and women back in the States and looking to jump start their careers.
These universities cater to the specific needs of active military personnel and veterans offering a full gamut of educational choices, many of which can be taken as online courses. For veterans who have returned home injured or who need to juggle the responsibilities of family, work and study time online education is a perfect solution. The flexibility of an online education allows veterans the ability to study at their own pace, enroll in as many or little courses as they like and attend class at the most convenient times. As partial payment for the sacrifices American soldiers have made to keep us safe it is only fitting that we afford them as many opportunities as possible to secure an education and a rewarding future.

Body Armour Underwear - Protection Gamut

Just like climates and clothes, our needs also differ. The communities where we live, the type of job we have, and our status in the society, are some of the key factors that influence our needs. Just like the body armour underwear we don depends on the kind of threat we are most vulnerable to encounter.
Thus, it is vital to learn about the protection gamut of the bullet proof vest we have or about to procure. Bear in mind that there are six different level of bullet resistance capacity set by NIJ. Each level can withstand different types of guns and rifles. So choose wisely and pick the one you need best.
In choosing the appropriate bullet proof vest for you or your loved one, there are important considerations you have to make first. You need to know the type of threat you are possible to encounter either in your work or in your community. Know the type of climate where you will be using the vest most of the time. Figure out why you need it, what it is for or for what purpose. Information like this is pertinent in your choice of selection.
Once you have listed down these essential data, you also need to know your proper measurement. Fit is crucial for convenience and ease of mobility. You must know how to perfectly get your measurement to be able to order the right size. There are tips online, or better yet you can ask your supplier on how to properly get the right body size.
The scale of protection your bullet resistant vest can provide depends on the NIJ standard. You can choose from level 1 to level 4. You can also opt for concealable types or the tactical vests. Oftentimes militaries, soldiers and those in the armed forces prefer higher protection levels which are bulkier and heavier as opposed to executives who prefer to wear concealable ballistic vest.
Tactical vests are designed to make the wearer conspicuous amidst crowded places while concealable vests are designed to keep the gear unnoticeable to avoid panic or discomfort within the surrounding area. Both types of vests also provide different degree of resistance. Ostensibly, the bigger ones can provide you intense protection against high-powered guns as the thinner ones.
Higher levels of protection require additional plates for stronger resistance capacity. That is why, if you are in the military or any other law enforcement organizations obtaining vests with extra pockets is imperative. Versatility is necessary, so if you have added pockets in your ballistic vest, it can be easier for you to add plates at any time. The moment higher resistance is needed; you can easily adjust protection by adding extra plates to the pockets.

Levels of Body Armor Protection - What Is Yours

Buying bullet resistant vest is the same as buying any item but may require much attention to detail. Why? This is because the safety of your life is dependent on the quality and performance of the vest. More so, body armor is categorized into six levels, which why it is vital to figure out first what you need before obtaining one for your usage.
Find out why you need to wear bullet proof vest. Is it for work or simply to protect yourself from untoward incidents because of the increasing crime rate in your area? Where are you going to wear the vest? Are you sojourned in a cold or tropical area? Ultimately, you need to know what type of threat you are most probable to face.
All bullet proof vests are categorized into six different levels. Level 1 is the least resistance capacity and going up as the level also increases. Level 4 being the highest can withstand the most powerful armor-piercing ammunition. Your level of protection will depend greatly on the type of job you have and the community you live in.
The oldest rule of thumb especially for police forces is to wear a bullet resistant vest that can withstand the type of service weapon you carry around. This adage is as relevant and true as it was when it was first utilized.
However, bear in mind that threats are not only based on the rounds or the number of rounds but also other factors. Ballistic threat may include the shape, mass, caliber, angle of impact, velocity and more. Remember also that there are diverse types of rounds and cartridges for a given caliber. As such, bullet proof vest that can withstand a particular round may not be able to resist other types of loaded ammunition of the same caliber.
Hence, it is vital that the vest you are going to obtain passed the NIJ testing standard. This is because NIJ is the research, development and evaluation agency that approves the testing. To further understand the different levels set by the National Institute of Justice, let me show you each level with its corresponding handgun resistance.
Level I
This is the lowest among the levels of protection which can withstand .22 caliber pistols or long rifle rounds. This pistol has 40 grams of lead solid that travels about 1450 feet per second. It can also resist .38 caliber with 158 grams lead solid at 1300 feet per second velocity.
Level IIA
This can withstand 9mm and 357 magnum rounds, with 124 gram full metal jacket rounds and 158 gram jacket soft pointed rounds respectively. The speed is at 1140 feet per second for the 9mm and 1300 feet per second for the 357 magnum rounds.
Level II
This level can withstand the same types of pistols as that of level IIA but with higher safety level. Meaning, it can resist same rifles at a greater speed. It can still protect the wearer from 9mm and 357 magnum rounds with velocities at 1225 feet per second and 1445 fps respectively.
Level IIIA
This level protects the wearer from 9mm rounds with 1400 fps and .44 caliber and .44 magnum rounds at a speed of up to 1400 feet per second.
Level III

Customized Military Rings Are a Long Lasting Tradition Within the Military

The armed forces are made up of different branches of people that all work together to fight for their country and the people within it. Every day the armed forces work hard to keep their home country safe from various external threats, whether they are away on deployment or on base. Their training is grueling and involves long hours often with little praise or thanks, which is why presenting our loved ones with a token of our love and gratitude when they spend so much time away from us is so important.
Customized Military rings can be given to show our loved ones that we care.
The Tradition of the Customized Military Ring
The idea of the military ring is not a recent one as it has been around for a long time and can even be traced back to our ancestry. In ancient Rome and in Greece, jewellery would be worn to reflect power and position within an army and to be given a piece of jewellery such as this would be considered a great reward. This is no different today because the range of jewellery that is available is still considered a worthy gift to give. The only thing that has differed by today's standards is the quality of the craftsmanship and the varieties available.
The Wide Selection of options available in terms of customization.
Not only can military rings be purchased in a range of materials but they can be designed to include different gems and stones. Engravings can be made on request to add that extra sense of customization, which can include more than their name, also their rank and unit as well. Also Symbols that reflect a soldier's deployments can also be added on to the ring as side emblems so as to reflect their previous achievements and commitment to their country.
Rings made according to specification
Military rings are not solely for any particular branch of the military but can be made specific to refer to each section so that army rings are made different to those of the navy or air force. For the army, the ring can be made specific to each unit an individual may belong to. An emblem can also be made to reflect each conflict an individual has been involved in, which is a tradition that goes back to the world wars.
Air Force Rings
For the Air Force a selection of rings can be purchased that reflect the very special contribution that the brave men and women that navigate the skies make to every military campaign their country has been involved in since the birth of the first aircraft.
Rings for Navy Personnel
For the Navy a selection is available to choose from that mark the skills and experience of military personnel that spend a great deal of time away from their families at sea.

A Different Way to Tell What PTSD Is Like

The strength of your emotions during the event determine how long and how vivid you will remember things. Sharp pain, as a physical representation of negative emotions is stronger than intense pleasure, a representation of positive emotions. What I write below is irrelevant about its content, but is very relevant about the longevity and the vividness of details preserved by memory over time. Again, and again, I am not comparing this situation to PTSD. Instead, I use this example to illustrate that if positive emotions could capture the degree of vividness and preserve it over time, negative emotions are by their nature are more potent than pleasant ones. If I remember my pleasant experiences this well, a soldier or a rape victim remembers details of his or her nasty events much more lucid and much more longer.
I could, of course, write about different nasty experiences, about things that will make your hair stand, and will keep you awake at night, for many nights. Instead, I chose to share with you only pleasant memories because they will not be disturbing, intrusive, and unmanageable.
After reading my notes, I want you to understand with your brain, gut, and soul, that PTSD is polar opposite of this and many times stronger. The point is for you to, at least, somehow, experience what PTSD is like without putting you through the real, the nasty, the worst of what a man is capable of doing.
Our memories shape our lives, our actions, and our reactions to the conditions that resemble what we experienced some time in the past. From the moment of inception, we remember, consciously or subconsciously, everything we hear, smell, taste, touch, feel, and think about; we remember ideas and emotions, we remember it all, from inception to death. The reason some memories stay fresh for a month, a year, or for life, is because they were written using stronger and stronger emotions. In a way, emotions assign the tools with which the memories are recorded.
Special Memories Come with Keys, Like Charms on a Necklace
In my early twenties, I fell in love. I was young and inexperienced in handling emotions. Although many years went by filling my memory banks with other experiences, I can still recall the sensations, the emotions, and the feelings I had back then. That relationship did not work out. And even though I have not seen her for decades, I still remember. The stronger the feelings, the longer the memory will last.
I used to enjoy playing music, including five years of music school with classes at least three times a week, and tons of practice. After my graduation, I put the instrument in the closet, and when found it a year later, I could not play a single tune, even with the music sheets. So how is it that maybe 50 aggregate hours of sex during several months of relationship linger in my memory for several decades, while what I learned in over 1,500 hours of lessons over five years, vanished from the memory in less than a year?
Why is it that every time I see a redhead, I remember the redheaded girl, my childhood friend? Actually, playing with her was more trouble than fun. To this day, I have no redheaded friends.
Fear is another key-more powerful emotion than love, in terms of memorability. Although I've had my share of gruesome frightening memories, I would rather talk about the brain and memory by using pleasant experiences.
Her skin was soft and velvety. Her scent, lightly sweet, with a hint of vanilla, reminded me of the scent of the hair of a toddler. Her eyes were dark, big, and deep as an ocean. We were kissing, cuddling and kissing some more. Our hands caressed each other's skin, and it felt as though we didn't have enough hands and enough fingers to touch and caress the entire body, all at the same time. Her lips kissed every spot on my body. Hot, moist and insatiable, they wanted more, and more, and more. At times, when I had my eyes closed, it felt as though I was in her lips, between them, as though I was within them, inside and out. We had to take short breaks from giving each other pleasure. When she kissed my hand, or arm, or leg, or stomach, that part would experience such intensity of sensation, it felt as though my heart moved in there. Sometimes it felt as though my heart was in my stomach or in my throat, or in my calf. She would start kissing and caressing that part, and after some time, that part of my body would get hot. I would start feeling my heartbeat in there. Then it would start throbbing with pleasurable sensations. The pleasure would increase to the point of becoming mixed with discomfort, to dull pain, to intense pain mixed with intense pleasure. When we stopped, it was only to catch some breath. Between the periods of cuddling, caressing and kissing, we would interlock our genitals for the dance of life, with the rhythm of the blinking star. Going inside her was not a treat, it was an ever-evolving journey, sometimes boisterous, rough, relentless, merciless, like the heavy storm waves pounding the rocky cliff; every time exploding, roaring with the raucous unbridled spirit. Sometimes it was a calm voyage with slow, warm, long waves running up the fine sand of a tropical beach, breaking up in tiny white bubbles, absorbed by the thirsty sand without a whisper. Oozing from the inside out, spouting from the outside in was the nectar of love, saturating, insisting, permeating, invading, remarkable, unstoppable. We relished in its tangy presence and let our bodies drink up the elixir of life.