The news is never easy.  I’m never ready for it, although I probably should be considering the business we’re in.  The loss of one member of the special operations team is extremely tough to bear.  The loss of five within a ten-day period is particularly tough.

Despite the fact that the business we conduct is a dangerous one in a dangerous world, fighting dangerous people, I’m always saddened at the news of a loss to the special operations team.  I take it personally, as does the entire special operations community.  With each notification I hold my breath in nervous anticipation, hoping the names don’t hit too close to home.  Unfortunately, they have, more than I care to admit.  Seeing the name of a special operations warrior is hard enough.  But when it’s someone from the same command or personally known, it’s damn near unbearable.     

The losses are real people with real lives and real families... 

Photo Courtesy of us.army.mil

Lt Col. John Darin Loftis

Captain Ryan Hall 

Captain Nicholas Whitlock

1Lt Justin Wilkins

Senior Airman Julian Scholten

With the exception of Lt. Col. Loftis, 44, all were 30 years old…or younger.  All were selflessly serving their country so the rest of us can live in relative peace.  All were conducting operations designed to rid the world of hate, discord, and terror. 

Lt. Col. “JD” Loftis was working with the Afghan people in a special program designed to foster and enhance community relations.  He spoke the language and was generally well-accepted by the Afghan community.  He was doing good things for the local people with an objective to help them.  He was well-regarded.  So much so that he received the honor of a local name that translated to him being a “quality human being.” (AF Public Affairs) 

JD was working in a secure compound when a so-called trusted Pakistani junior officer reportedly walked into his office and shot him in the head out of “retaliation for what U.S. officials called an inadvertent burning of Qurans at Bagram Air Base north of Kabul.” (CNN)  There is a 25-year-old Pakistani suspect in custody.

It is an outrage to think that our forces cannot be shielded from the grave dangers of assassination even inside what is deemed to be a “secure” compound.  What is even more of an outrage is how quick our esteemed President was to apologize for yet another American transgression related to the Quran burning, yet, we have heard nothing from him regarding any demands for an apology for the senseless assassination of an American Warrior representing the very country he presides over.  Where is the apology demand now, Mr. President?  Why the silence?  Where’s the outrage? 

All of these losses, along with that of US Army Sergeant and local NW Florida resident, Joshua Born, have rocked the NW Florida community and serves as a stark reminder of the cold sober reality of the world in which we now live. 

Your All American Warriors continue to stand proudly against the oppressive forces of tyranny and ask little in return beyond the support of the American people.  Their sacrifices and those of their families deserve our undying gratitude and overwhelming support.  Show that support by defending the values we imbue as a free nation.  Respect the flag of the United States of America.  Stand tall during the national anthem.  Thank a service member in uniform when you see one.  Say thank you to those who have served.  And never forget those who have given all to preserve the American ideals and very freedoms we all too often take for granted.

May God bless you and yours.  And may God bless the All American Warrior!

- G -

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Please visit my Introspection bog at: http://gwestfal.blogspot.com/

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As Americans, we all want the same thing, right?

I grew up believing that, as Americans, we all shared similar ideals and principles on common ground, striving to uphold the American way of life, seeking the American dream of continued freedom, prosperity as a result of hard work, and the ability to make free choices within the bounds of the law.

I was raised in an average middle-income family. We pretty much lived paycheck-to-paycheck for the most part - not poor by any stretch of the imagination but, insomuch as luxuries were concerned, we had few.  Actually, if you've ever seen "That 70's Show" on television, it pretty much summed up the type of family I grew up in during the 70's.  Could be one of the reasons I enjoyed watching it as much as I did.

My parents worked hard to provide the basic necessities along with a few "nice-to-haves" such as a colored TV, a stereo for the house, and a touch-tone phone with a really long chord.  We were one of the first among friends with the long chord and it was awesome!  We could take that phone almost anywhere inside our 1100 square feet of the house.

I also worked hard.  I started working when I was fifteen years old.  I worked part-time, played high school football and supported a very expensive habit of having a girlfriend!  I eventually bought my first car - a 1965 Chevy Impala.  I paid $700 over time to my step-father who taught me my first lesson on the importance of credit and the principle of a timely and consistent repayment plan.

I grew up in a military family so my first career choice was all but pre-destined.  I wanted to go to college but my family couldn't afford the tuition and I didn't have the talent required to qualify for a football scholarship, despite the fact that I was a big shot quarterback...good, but not great by college standards.  So I weighed my military options and decided to go in the opposite direction of my Navy brat heritage and joined the Air Force.  It was one of the best choices for me to make for my own life.  I have absolutely nothing against the other branches of service and have the utmost respect for every one of them, but what the Air Force gave me in return for the service I provided, continues to pay dividends, even to this very day.

I grew up...fast!  From the time I left home and returned from basic military training, I can say unequivocally, that I matured beyond my 18-years of age.  It was the beginning of enlightenment and insight into what life is like as an adult, even while I was still but a young man.

I learned early on that most of us desire similar things from life.  The freedom to choose, to find love, raise a family, earn a living, and leave a legacy.  The fact that our desires are so similar doesn't negate the fact that, as Americans, we can be so divisive on "the rules" by which we achieve those desires.

The political landscape has changed the face of this great nation.  No longer are we a collective, cohesive nation of Americans striving for the betterment of mankind, providing an example for the world to emulate.  Instead, we've become a nation whose overextended spending habits and misuse of budgetary powers have resulted in a downgraded credit rating, resulting in an unprecedented national debt, leaders who are mired in political partisan gridlock on both sides of the aisle who are driven more by agenda than principle, an entitlement-ridden and government-dependent society who knows more about the welfare and social status of celebrities than the vital statistics of their leadership.  Why, even those who are in the same political party throw each other under the bus to elevate themselves.  If you doubt that, just watch the Republican race for the GOP presidential nomination.  And I won’t even begin an attempt to explain what the heck the whole 99% movement was about. 

At what point did we stray from the principled course set by our forefathers in the founding documents?  Or, has it been that way ever since and I was just too blind to see it?  When did entitlement become the preference over hard work and the resulting fruit of our labor?  When did common sense and sound judgment depart from the heart of America?  Is it too late to come to our senses and realize we're on the same team and become one nation, under God, once again?

It has been said that, with each passing generation, new ideals and principles are formed that chart the course of its future.  I see so much promise in our youth, yet we have riddled them with debt and handcuffed them with rules and laws they're forced to overcome that handicaps their ability to overcome and correct the course of our great nation.  I have every hope that greatness will return, but at what cost?  If faced with no other choice, are they willing to accept a lower standard of living than their parents in order to free themselves and their children from the inevitable vulnerabilities of choosing otherwise?  Do they have the tools, desire and know-how to even make that choice?  

Yes, generally speaking, we all want the same thing.  Now, if we can only convince the Washington machine to get out of the way, I think we can just do this.


- G -


If you'd like to receive a notification anytime I publish a new blog (currently about every two weeks), visit my Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Author


Once there, click on "Get Update via RSS" on the bottom of the left column. You'll be subscribed and will receive notification whenever I publish a new blog or provide updates to my novel Dream State. And help me by recommending this blog to others and "liking" my FB page.


Please visit my Introspection bog at: http://gwestfal.blogspot.com/
Please visit my website: www.gwestfal.com

Somewhere over an obscure, precisely pre-determined location, operating under the cloak of darkness, is a highly-trained, highly-specialized, special operations operative.  Some are called Commandos, some Rangers, others are MARSOC (US Marines), US Army Delta or Navy SEALs.  Every one of these lethal warriors operate under the overall direction of the United States Special Operations Command, or USSOCOM. 

I have the distinct privilege of working in a division of the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) that brings me into daily contact with some of the finest people I have ever met.  As America's quiet warriors, these Air Commandos rotate in and out of several countries throughout the world in support of SOCOM missions and directives that facilitate peace, preserve life, and promote human dignity among all mankind.  Their job is not easy and isn't always pleasant by any stretch of the imagination.  Oftentimes, they're called upon to support objectives that place their own lives in the balance of delicacy.  Yet, they go forth willingly, courageously accepting the risks that inevitably come with the call of duty.

So it goes, as we sleep peacefully at night, secure in our homes in still one the freest nations on earth, our quiet warriors are in some 120 countries around the world conducting operations as diverse as the mind of man can conceive...and beyond.  They do it for reasons as varied and unique as each individual is from one another.  But the common thread connecting them all is their love of America and the principles we imbue as a free nation.

Every warrior has a story to tell.  I'm reminded of the recent hostage rescue by our beloved Navy SEALs in western Somalia on the eve of the Presidential State of the Union address.  The same SEAL team (SEAL Team 6) that eliminated Bin Laden under the direction and watchful eyes of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), Brigadier General Brad Webb sitting front and center at a computer terminal, with the President and members of the cabinet looking on.  This same team of courageous warriors (may or may not have been some of the same members), conducted the rescue of American Jessica Buchanan and and Dane Poul Hagen.  

The SEALs reportedly parachuted from a USAF special operations aircraft, maneuvered to their objective on foot, and found the two hostages, kidnapped in Somalia last fall.  I can only imagine the look of terror on the faces of the kidnappers when they were confronted by the world's most lethal forces. 

There are many stories that surround the good work of our Special Operations Forces (SOF).  If you have a story you'd like to share, drop me a line or leave a comment.  If you enjoyed this article, share it with a friend.  Tell them that, despite the fiscal cutbacks in our government, there will always be a SOF presence somewhere on this globe of ours protecting the very freedoms we hold dear. 

Sleep well, for America's quiet warriors are standing watch!

- G -

The war in Iraq is over!  Or so we're told. 

Was it worth it?

As most of our troops are making their way out of Iraq under the cloak of darkness and the headlines of the world's media, my mind is flooded with more questionable images, somber reflections, and memories of time served than the resolute satisfaction imbibed by the media and our leaders.  As I think of the controversy and turmoil surrounding this war, I don't typically dwell on what brought us to the doorsteps of involvement.  Rather, I think of the lives that were lost and whether or not a lasting objective of peace and stability will ensue.  I have my doubts.

Our once considerable might brought down a dictatorship and ignited a will among the people of Iraq to pursue ideals of self-control and governance that literally changed their way of life.  We can thank the American Warrior and their allies for that.  We can thank the families that waited patiently at home hanging on the hopes that their loved ones would return safely to celebrate the freedoms we have come to enjoy and expect here in our country.  Sadly, some of the waiting was in vain as many did not return home alive.  Instead, they, our truest heroes, gave all so others could have but a chance to dream of one day tasting the freedoms we enjoy. 

Campaign promises often induce a fog of judgement that attempts to convince the world that the actions of a sound decision is underway.  Unfortunately, what typically exists is just the opposite.  Political positioning approaching an election year can, and often does, cloud the judgement and decision-making of those charged with the responsibility. 

Despite what you may believe about the war in Iraq, and despite the media coverage trying to convince you that "all" of our troops have withdrawn, the fact remains that there are still a significant number of U.S. troops remaining in Iraq.  It's not because our political leadership are master deceptors.  It's because they too see the handwriting on the wall - we're not finished! 

Take an honest look at the region and you'll find Iran salivating at the mere possibilities that exist on such a fertile landscape as Iraq.  The economic infrastructure of Iraq is in shambles.  Political leadership is fragmented and in disarray. We have no choice but to ensure they succeed. 

Was it worth it?

Fox News Jennifer Griffin recently asked US Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, "Was it worth it?" It was clearly evident he struggled to find the right words as the question is so broad and diverse.  A simple yes or no would never suffice no matter who is charged with providing an answer. “To be sure, the cost was high,” he said. But “those lives were not lost in vain: They gave birth to an independent, free, and sovereign Iraq.” 

One of the surest ways we'll ever know if "it was worth it" will be in Iraq's resolve to exploit the opportunity so many gave to them to become a free nation.  Until then, the eyes of our generation and those following will be cast upon them to see if they stand up and become free. 

I attended a military promotion ceremony today to honor a very special friend who is serving his country as an Air Commando in the United States Air Force Special Operations Command.  The ceremony was brief but conducted with the formality, customs, and fashion commensurate with promoting the service and self-sacrifices this young warrior has given in the name of protecting the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. 

The ceremony was attended by virtually every member of his family to include his new bride, adult son, sister, and parents - many of whom had traveled great distances to witness the occasion of his promotion.  There were also close friends, teammates, co-workers and, of course, his commanding officer. 

The commander spoke highly of this warrior's achievements and poignantly spoke about how his promotion was not so much about his accomplishments but an affirmation of his potential.  The achievements were impressive indeed and served to remind me of the high caliber of men and women we truly have who willingly stand watch over the heartbeat of America as she goes about her daily life.  I was particularly impressed because, having worked alongside this young warrior on occasion throughout the world, I had no idea of the depth and breadth of his talents, experience and accomplishments. 

As I watched family members ceremoniously pin on his new rank of Major, I witnessed the pride exude from each one, unique in their own expressive manner.  I watched as an amazing transformation took place in the demeanor and appearance of this humble warrior as the new rank symbols assumed their resting place upon his shoulders.  Pride welled up within me that a select few truly understand.  I've been many places over the years with this warrior and have watched him grow into the leader he is today.  To be in the company of great men is an honor and this was certainly one of those occasions.

When he was given the opportunity to speak and "say a few words" as they say, he spoke with a new voice.  His message was not atypical of the warrior spirit and ethos.  I say that because he started by thanking those whom had arrived to share in the occasion and to his commander for presiding over the ceremony as any humble warrior would.  I watched as he reflected on the moment and was slightly overcome by emotion as he tried to articulate his own gratitude to "the sheer amount of heroes" he had the honor to serve alongside over the years, especially in the special operations community.  He touted the command as the best in the Air Force, and among the most quiet and humble branches of the services - and just as it should be considering he is a member who personifies those qualities.

We thank you for your service and will always remember and honor your personal sacrifices to safeguard our Amercian values and keep us safe from the tyrannies of oppression!  Congratulations on your most deserving promotion to Major.

Godspeed!

- G -

Welcome to All-American Warriors!

AAW is a place for like-minded passionate Americans to share their views on anything American.  There's a lot going on in our country so I don't suspect we'll run out of focus topics.  This forum was designed with you, the passionate American, in mind so please feel free to articulate what it is you're passionate about. 

Whether you agree with the current state of affairs, America's direction on the path of life, or its political or socioeconomic standing in the world, there's something that no doubt ignites your passion.  You're invited to share that passion right here.  The blog posts you'll find here are designed to serve as a springboard to interactivity and constructive dialogue among its members.  We all have opinions and will often disagree on details but I believe we all share the desire for our country to stand out as the great country we truly know it to be. 

This week's topic is economics.  Now here's something we can sink our teeth into!  The number one area of concern among Americans is the state of our economy.  What do YOU believe the biggest obstacle is to economic growth and prosperity in our country?  When or where did we take that wrong turn?  There's a lot of rhetoric and finger-pointing coming out of Washington these days that has literally taken the proverbial wind out of the sails of American economics. 

America spoke up when they changed the balance of power last year in Congress.  Did it do any good or should we have done the same in the Senate as well?  As we all know now, balance doesn't always result in agreement.  In fact, quite the opposite has happened.  A republican majority in the house and a democratic majority in the senate has actually resulted in political positioning, discord, and stalemate.  Was it any better when a majority ruled both houses?  Or is that too much power?  How do we fix this?  One thing is clear...crystal clear.  Wall Street doesn't care for it one bit! 

In a future post we'll chat about LEADERSHIP at the local and national and international levels in more detail.  For now, let's try to stay on point with respect to American economics and its effect on us individually and collectively as a nation. 

Some things to get you started...Are you better off financially today or worse off?   Do you have a job?   Is it the job you want?   Will it be there tomorrow?  Are we in a double-dip recession?  What have you done to sheild yourself from the decline? 

There's so much to talk about when it comes to the America we all desire.  Post your opinions and passions on this week's topic and feel free to make suggestions for the format you'd like to see here.  Try to stay on point as best you can and please be respectful of other's opinions.  because after all, passionate topics bring about passionate positions.  Yours is no less important than anyone else's...it may just be different.  Write on fellow Warriors!