The Warriors Code, Part II
Maybe not for you guys, but this one comes with a hankie warning for me anyway. Nah, who am I kidding, even if you have a Grinch pre-whoville 2 sizes too small heart, this one will choke you up.
Video up after the jump, since it plays automatically.
Watch CBS Videos Online
Brian Brennan is a fellow alumnus of The Citadel, and a brother of mine, in arms if not in blood. He is a recipient of the Arland D. Williams Award, and a true American Hero.
I just feel so humbled by men like Brian.
H/t to Hawkeye and the VA
Category: The Warrior Code
Hey TSO, You gonna let GI Jane talk to me that way? I apologize, but I will respond with the same respect that she has offered me. Personally, I expected a little more tact from “SFC” Cheryl. GI Jane- I’m not going to pull the my service is better than your service, “sarge”, but why don’t you just answer my question instead of trying to impress people with your association with the 101st Division. For all I know, you may have been some supply chief giving guys like me my MREs while I go out on an extended patrol. Don’t put that “Airborne” label on your signature and think that gives you some kind of cred. You have as much Airborne cred as the Ugandan chow hall security guards who checked my ID every time I got hot chow, has Marine Corps cred. I know how this whole “Airborne” thing works. You get deployed with them, as an attachment put your Eagle boy scout patch on your shoulder, get stationed at BIAP making sure the eggs aren’t overcooked, and all of a sudden “I’m Airborne!” BS. You ain’t no fucking Ranger, so calm the fuck down, Ms. Airborne. I don’t need to list my what my AO’s were, what campaign and valor medals I received to get some credibility and neither do you. I asked a valid question that asks why him, when others have sacrificed more? Why him when men in his vehicle did exactly the same thing and he receives the pomp and circumstance. Why not TSO? He got pretty banged up in the Stan too and when through some pretty intense medical recovery. Why doesn’t GI Jane slobber all of him? Nope, you just tell me the “f” off and write your oh so impressive signature. Your overcompensation is pathetic. If you can’t stand a Marine asking some fellow veterans a real question, that he wouldn’t raise in a general population, and simply asking for clarification then why don’t you, as you kindly put it, “kindly stay the fuck off of these threads” So take your overcompensating,… Read more »
Why is it such a horrible thing to say, Lt. Brennan’s story is highly inspirational, but let’s keep institutions like the Hall of Fames, and societies that honor a life of service, hallowed and respected.
I’m not objecting to the CBS story, I’m not objecting to him receiving media attention, I think it’s great that people know about his inspirational story.
I’m objecting to the his induction into institutions that were set up to recognize specific type of acts and individuals either went above and beyond the call of duty, or was a lifetime of service to others. And I’m sorry GI Jane, but getting horribly injured in an IED blast is not “above and beyond the call of duty”, it’s a risk of the job that he willing signed up for. Otherwise, why isn’t he receiving the MOH, the DSC, the Silver Star, or how about even a Bronze Star? Nothing I’ve read so far has cited that he will receive one due to the injuries he sustained.
And he’s only 22? 23? How has his short life, which far from over (thankfully), a lifetime of service towards others? Him awakening from a coma by the General uttering a phrase that is close to heart to soldiers is a cuddly story, but where is the service that deserves recognition?
These are simply questions that I ask without demeaning his service, his injuries, or the attention he’s receiving.
Yes, the Lt’s story is highly emotional and inspirational, but why let emotions lower the bar to institutions that were set up to specifically recognize men and women that the military and civilians strive to emulate? Otherwise call it what it is, the Sympathy Club, and everyone with a fuzzy story gets in.
Chris
Hey Chris-
Just an FYI, I usually just let the commenters argue, because on the few times I stepped in I ended up getting some collateral.
As for me, I just got some herniated discs and degenerative disc disease, so I didn’t really deserve much of anything, and even feel too guilty to apply for VA benefits. I am a horrible example! 🙂 I did just enough to get out with a good conduct medal (which I have yet to recieve) and an honorable.
I do wish peeps would fight less here though. Except with Southern Dem and Troll types, which Chris certainly doesn’t appear to be.
But, either waym I am total lassaiz Faire (sp?) guy.
TSO- Hey brother, I’d rather lose my foot then F up my back. Those injuries are no laughing matter. And just like you, going to the VA for injuries is not my favorite thing to do, but its what you’ve earned, and you should apply so that 10 years down the road if….. you know the story. I’m sure you’ve told your boys millions of times, just like I’ve told mine. But with this whole argument thing. Jesus. I understand about sensitivity, but personally, I almost hate the bending over backwards fawning of OIF/OEF vets as much as the Code Pinkers retardedness. I did not train my Marines to walk around thinking they’re better than anyone else just because of the job they chose in public service, (I’m talking to you 99% of the cops I know). You should choose to enlist (or accept your commission), out of your desire to serve, be a patriot, and advance a cause bigger and more significant than yourself. In this age of American Idol type egotistical self worship, the military should be a haven from the evils of “it’s all about me” Mtv pop culture. A place where we instill humbleness and selflessness. That is why we spends hours learning about MOH recipients. That is why we are a “band of brothers”. That is why we chose to be the minority to benefit the majority. But to people like GI Jane, and Trochilus, and everyone else who immediately reacts negatively when I try to uphold these beliefs, I’m the bad guy. When I ask how has he earned this award? I’m the bad guy because I don’t drop to my knees and worship a guy who sacrificed just as much as the men I lost who fought beside me and will never be inducted into any Hall of Fame. It’s a sad day when former service members also feed the flame of ego, because by them approving of this recognition while denouncing any questioning whatsoever, it’s more of a reflection on them, and how much they want attention themselves. No standards, no bar… Read more »
Jonn,
I understand your sentiment, but my question isn’t “What makes a hero” or “Who IS a hero”. I would never ask that, because, as you imply, it’s not really worth doing.
Many veterans scream at the top of our lungs, “Don’t give me benefits if it means that you won’t recognize our mission!” Meaning, the military benefits are worthless and meaningless, if Congress and the new Prez bash our mission and cheapen our sacrifice. IAVA participates in this selling of our military souls in return for higher GI Bills. I don’t stand for this, and neither do many of you. If we refuse to accept perks if it means the placating of veterans to not push to honor our sacrifice, why do we accept the receiving of an award (perk) to an individual which cheapens the sacrifice of prior recipients?
Chris
Chris, I read all your comments along with those that sent words back to you. I won’t say I agree with everything that everyone has put on this so called “Blog”. My only statement
that I will make is this, I’m a Vietnam Vet, retired Navy, I
didn’t see as much action as some did even tho I was there 3 times. I got spit on when I came back. To me the HERO’S are those that didn’t come home.
God Bless you and all my Fellow Vets, and those on active duty at this time for your service to this Great Country.
“So called blog”?
If we aren’t a blog, what are we? A refrigerator?
WOW! Powerful and moving! Well done LT., you make us proud to be Americans!