Past Exploration – Tracking Marine Corps History on Guam

(Pensacola, Florida; June 30, 2022) – World War II forever shaped the legacy of the Chamorro people and Guam after the Japanese captured the island from U.S. control in 1942. The Japanese occupation was brutal, even reaching heights of such cruelty as a Chamorro death march across the island to relocation camps. U.S. forces finally … Continue reading Past Exploration – Tracking Marine Corps History on Guam

Mental Health – Tossing Toxic Tails on the Tarmac

(Pensacola, Florida; June 16, 2022) – I threw Alvin out of my house and life only 48 hours into a five-day visit. ‘Alvin’ is not his real name, but we’ll use it here. I met him in Virginia’s Hampton Roads area back in 2014 when my ex-wife and I first separated. I was predictably devastated … Continue reading Mental Health – Tossing Toxic Tails on the Tarmac

On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: Dolphins in the Midst

On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: Dolphins in the Midst (Pensacola, Florida; April 26, 2022) – The ex-USS Ponce (LPD 15) has arrived at her final berth in Texas at the scrapper’s yard. So, it’s time for another ‘On the Waterfront’ sea story about the Proud Lion and the adventures of her intrepid crew, … Continue reading On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: Dolphins in the Midst

On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: The Greatest Seaman

(Pensacola, Florida; April 21, 2022) – I posted the original version of this column nearly two years ago while I was still in Washington State. However, as the Proud Lion is sailing into history now, this memory has taken up pride of place in the formation of memories gliding along the channel for the Grand … Continue reading On the Waterfront – Sailing Into History: The Greatest Seaman

Just My Thoughts: You Don’t Fight R@cism by being R@cist

(Pensacola, Florida – Feb. 2, 2022) – You don’t fight racism by being a racist. That seems like a pretty simple statement, right? Engaging in racist behavior is patently anathema to building a social contract in which all human beings are afforded equal opportunity. However, it’s been occurring to me for about, oh, nearly thirty … Continue reading Just My Thoughts: You Don’t Fight R@cism by being R@cist

Just My Thoughts: Christmas with the Presidents

(Pensacola, Florida – Dec. 16, 2021) – Christmastime at Mount Vernon in the late 18th century was a far cry from the lights, trees, tinsel, and frenetic pace of parties we know today in the 21st century. Christmas trees were largely unknown to the American public. The Christmas tree was brought to the U.S. in … Continue reading Just My Thoughts: Christmas with the Presidents

Travel Log: Natural Bridge, or ‘Oh, Crap; There It Is!’

(Bowie, Maryland; Nov. 28, 2021) – I’ve been struck dumb with breathlessly overwhelming awe at my first sight of natural formations four times in my life now. The first time was the sight of Uluru (formerly Ayres Rock) when I visited Australia in 2004. The great, red sandstone giant rising from the flat Australian Outback … Continue reading Travel Log: Natural Bridge, or ‘Oh, Crap; There It Is!’

Travel Log – Falling for Water!

(Silverdale, Washington; May 4, 2021) – Waterfalls wash away strife and care, the rushing cataract mesmerizing the eyes even as it soothes the soul. As I near my departure from Washington State, I wanted to share a few more memories of the amazing places we have here. I’ve found much solace, wonder, and water droplets … Continue reading Travel Log – Falling for Water!