Shamu

I would take a pic of mine but all you would see is black.

Those of you in Recon might like reading the Six Silent Men series based on LRP's in Nam. 3 Books, 3 authors one of which whose name I recall was Gary Linderer. He also wrote other books on the LRP's in Nam. As for me Army Engineers, Ft Jackson, SC, Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD, Ft. Sill, OK ( NCO Academy), Thailand, and finally Toul / Verdun France. All good duty.

Pearl Harbor Speech by F.D.R. To the Congress of the United States Yesterday, Dec. 7, 1941 - a date which will live in infamy - the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with the government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific. Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleagues delivered to the Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack. It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu. Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya. Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong. Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam. Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands. Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island. This morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island. Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation. As commander in chief of the Army and Navy, I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense. Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us. No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory. I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost, but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again. Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger. With confidence in our armed forces - with the unbounding determination of our people - we will gain the inevitable triumph - so help us God. I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, Dec. 7, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese empire. Franklin Roosevelt May those who gave their lives rest in peace.

You did fool me for a minute BMD, when I saw "James" Brown I thought it was a joke about the singer James Brown. Considering the ego of Jim Brown I bet his eyes popped open when he couldn't even hit Ali. At least he had the good sense to abandon that idea. However, properly promoted, it would have been a money maker fight. Until fight time most of the public would not know Jim Brown had no chance. I'm sure ALi would have danced and tried to make Jim Brown look good. In real life they had a mutual respect for each other.

I must say from what I read I truly admire your father as he seems to be a fighter which can only help considering his current problems. For him I can only hope all goes well and the doctors provide the care he needs. For you, your father is providing a fine example of inner strength. Now, as hard as it may be, It's your turn to stand beside him reflecting the strength he has shown you in life. You said you laughed on the way out of his room, I believe there is much truth in the saying "laughter is the best medicine". Share it with your father, he just might appreciate it. As a parent who has in the past had some health issues I can only tell you how much strength was imparted to me by my children as we stood together through difficult times. My pride in them did as much for me as the doctors. I find no solace in religion so it would be inappropriate for me to offer prayers but please know you and your father are in my thoughts. Not that I don't pray to a specific God but my prayers are kind of generic and hopeful that someone or something is listening. At least I will not be offending any particular God by leaving them out. I hope no offense is found in my religious attitude, none is meant.

A stick in your head song..........entertaining. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qMykLW4AXs

When I first got the the Ultra I had plans for long distance rides but never really did. Was going to make business calls with it, I cover the east coast area, but only took it on a trip once. Just not as convenient as a car for business. Now I just ride local for pleasure. When weather is right many of us meet at the dealer on Sunday mornings and just take a ride to somewhere for fun and a bite to eat for a break. It's a real casual setup with the trip being decided once we all get there. One or two guys will take the lead and we are usually leave by 8:30 AM and are back before 1:00 PM. Good group, good fun. One thing I will not miss regardless of weather is the Toys for Tots ride usually organized by H.O.G. A BIG group gathers in multiple places and we join together as we go. Local police even help by controlling the route so we are not separated by stop lights. I usually strapped a big Teddy Bear into my passenger seat as my gift for the kids. One year and I wish I had the pic I had one bigger than me. Well, our bellies looked similar. I should also point out what type bike you ride has nothing to do with the Toys for Tots ride, all are welcome. It's about biker's not Harley's. It's just that the dealerships are good starting points for organization and coordination with others groups. We are met by Marines at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) who take care of gift distribution. Video is from 2010 but gives you an idea of participation.

It's the good old Harley created image hot bikes = hot chicks. Or simply commercialism. However in reality some Harley chicks I have seen would just as soon chew you up and spit you out...........some nasty looking tattooed women.

I am basically just getting old. The Ultra Classic, with lots of extra chrome was high maintenance to keep it looking good. If I did drop it this old man would not be picking it back up anymore. And looking at the bikes above, Wolf's and Maz's I know you would understand the work of getting my old legs up and over to mount the bike. I was relegated to the step over move. It was time to move on. Anyway, that's a good excuse for a new bike. I'll miss that bike but not the work in keeping it "Harley" like. My 2003 Ultra Classic:

I also have a Honda 650 Enduro that I keep at my mountain house. I have put that on the ground a few times in riding off road. No serious damage except to my pride but did learn some lessons. Off road can be a challenge drunk or not. Going on the ground is not an unexpected event, particularly in mud. I had the Harley Ultra Classic I traded in since 2003 and put it on the ground only once. Pure noobie mistake. Had gone up to the corner of my development and had waved at some neighbor kids and then came to the stop sign. Only had the bike a day. Had to make a right turn. Forgot to drop it back into 1st gear and when I tried accelerate to go I stalled it out and basically toppled over. As I said a pure noobie error but no harm done to me or the bike. Getting distracted on a bike is not good. Never missed a gear after that episode. A little embarrassing blocking some traffic and having the neighbor kids rushing over to help me get it back up.

Well pleased with my choice:

Bottom line, shop around. Let her pick it or you will never hear the end of it if it's not perfect. In reality buy what you like and can afford. Make or model will not make much difference, you have to satisfy yourselves with your purchase.

Pre-Owned are often the most financially sound option. More bang for your buck. Many times previously leased vehicles are available from the dealer which affords you a real good maintenance track record. Also keep in mind dealers tend to keep only the best of the pre-owned vehicles for resale. Others are sent to a wholesaler or auction for sale.

Coming from a retired UAW this may sound odd but I would not rule out Hyundai. I have done business with them at their plant in Alabama and was very impressed by their in-plant quality control procedures. http://www.hmmausa.com/ Of course regardless of car much will depend on your access to a dealer and their reputation for service.

My first shotgun, which I still have, was an 12 ga. Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight. It is only one of only two of my guns to which I hold a sentimental attachment. The other is my first deer rifle, a Winchester Model 88, .308. Both still in excellent condition though used extensively. (In the woods I sacrificed my body before hurting my guns.) Ithaca was bought for me by, at the time, my future wife. Sort of told me she was a keeper.

How well I know, I have all kinds of excess chrome on my Harley that does not a damn thing for performance. BTW, getting a new bike probably on Monday if the weather cooperates. I will not deck it out beyond stock except maybe for mirrors which are safety related.

Question from a computer illiterate. Once in game with map loaded and your FPS is below 100 just how much difference does a high tech rig make? I have two PC's, one over two years old the other maybe 4 yrs old both deliver good FPS with a good ping. Isn't that all that counts except maybe for joining faster? BTW one has a Nvidia GTX 285 the other a 295 if that provides some idea of how old the PC's are. I'll spend my money elsewhere.

Looks like most love just the way you are........Janey.

Riddles make my brain hurt. But I know this one so I won't ruin it.

You will never hear me say that the Harley is the best bike. But it is a Harley!

Tell me where that is so I do not get on! I do not mess with the spirit world.

Copycat post....... But it is good.

Being somewhat of an Aerosmith fan I think Janey is just fine:

No need to understand language to enjoy. IMHO very funny but glad joke was not on me. http://www.huffingto...?ncid=webmail23