And then there are the “lucky ones” who made it home.

—–

Some homecoming.  They returned to a country that is struggling with sky-rocketing fuel and food prices, out-of-control government spending, record deficits, high unemployment rates, record home foreclosures, businesses going under, and the ever-increasing government intrusion into our private lives.  These heroes, our wounded active duty military members and veterans, have the added struggle of trying to muster the will and courage to press on with their lives as they suffer in silence not only from their physical impairments but from the never-ending nightmares, anger, loneliness, guilt, depression, and a number of other gut-wrenching emotions — all of which are triggered by and attributed to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Thankfully, there are caring organizations that understand what our battle-scarred warriors are going through and are actively engaged in helping them begin the healing process.  One such organization is Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, Inc (PHWFFI).

Project Healing Waters was founded in 2005 at Walter Reed Medical Center by US Navy Captain Retired Ed Nicholson and assists in the physical and emotional therapy of disabled active duty military personnel and veterans through fly fishing and fly tying classes and outings. It has experienced unprecedented growth and success over the last five years because of its profound effect on the participants and their well being.

I first heard about this amazing program on Real American Stories about a year ago.  As fate would have it, I was invited to sing the National Anthem at a local campaign event and one of the organizers, Ann Erickson, whose husband is involved with PHWFFI, approached me afterward and said she loved my voice and wanted to know if I wrote any of my own songs.  I told her I did.  She asked if I had ever heard of Project Healing Waters and I told her I had seen the program featured on television recently.  She then asked if I’d be willing to write a song for them and, of course, I told her I would be honored to do so.

That same night, I wrote the first draft of the lyrics and created a rough track.  I recorded a quick vocal with the track and sent it off to my song-mate, Drew (a.k.a. BigDawg – a retired Marine Corps Captain).  After he and I went back and forth with the lyrics and the music track and got it sounding the way we both wanted it, we finished the song Healing Waters.

I sent it to PHWFFI founder, Captain (ret) Ed Nicholson, and he loved it so much that he created a DVD with our video which he uses in his presentations when pitching the program to VA Hospitals across the country.  It warms our hearts to know some of the volunteers and wounded warriors are giving out copies of our video to those who donate to PHWFFI.   We are thrilled to be able to help out in a small way.

Last summer I had the great honor of being invited to perform our song at a Maryland Blue Crabs baseball game from which a portion of the ticket sales benefited PHWFFI.  I was also invited to perform at their Annual 2-Fly Tournament just a couple weeks ago after which I was approached by Sergeant Christopher Maschi, who was wounded in action overseas and is combating the effects of PTSD.  He asked me if I wrote Healing Waters and told me the first time he heard that song about a year ago, it moved him deeply.  He said:

I don’t know how you did it, but you get it…you really captured what we go through in that song.  So many people have no idea what it’s like for us but your song says it all…and gives us hope.

That right there is why BigDawg and I do what we do.

While at the 2-Fly, I also met filmmakers Steven and Russ Hasty who were there filming the tournament, interviewing the wounded warriors taking part, and the PHWFF staff and volunteers for their project Healing Waters – “a feature length documentary film about the inspirational wounded warriors of Project Healing Waters.”

Here is what Steven has to say about the project (from his KickStarter project page):

Healing Waters is the uplifting story of the resilient and inspirational recovering active duty military service members and veterans of Project Healing Waters.  The film will provide an inside look at the organization’s roots, profile the founder, participants, and volunteers as well as document its astonishing growth and powerful results in transforming the hearts and lives of some of our Nations Finest.

Three years ago I was filming a television show in Virginia and attended a Project Healing Waters outing on the Rose River.  That was the first time I saw these incredible soldiers taking part in this innovative program.  I was fascinated as I watched these wounded warriors, some of whom had just returned from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, some of them veterans of Vietnam, as they made their way into the water on crutches, carried by volunteers, and even in wheelchairs to fish the Rose.  There were amputees and many bearing the scars and the trauma of roadside IEDs using improvised devices to hold fly rods in place and even a young Sergeant who had lost his arm using his teeth to retrieve the line.  I witnessed the positive change in their mood and demeanor as they lost themselves in Mother Nature.  I was both moved and inspired…

Healing Waters will be the first official documentary film of the group, which has been profiled on ESPN and CNN.  We are currently in pre-production on the film and are coordinating with the staff of Project Healing Waters to begin filming their classes and outings early this summer.  I will spend the next year traveling to VA hospitals and clinics across the US where more than 100 chapters of the project have taken root to record the compelling stories of the participants and volunteers and the impact Project Healing Waters has had on them.

Our goal is to complete the film by the end of next summer to meet the submission deadline for the Sundance Film Festival.

Let me begin by saying that I have not or will not take money from Project Healing Waters to produce this film…and the awesome Project Healing Waters backer incentives I am offering will be purchased from them by me.

The money I raise on Kickstarter will go directly toward production costs on the film.  I am an experienced outdoor television producer who knows how to operate on a tight budget.  The funds will cover necessary travel and hotels to film interviews and outings at VA Hospitals across the United States (I am no Prima Donna…if there are couches to crash on or meals to share so I can cut costs then I am there). Additional costs will include but not be limited to production assistance from camera and sound men, lighting, music licenses, post production work including film editing, sound, and color correction, film prints and DVDs…I have a deep respect for this group and I aim to produce a quality film.

WHAT HAPPENS IF WE DON’T REACH OUR GOAL?

If we don’t raise our goal, we don’t get anything. Donors pledge the amounts, but don’t actually pay until the goal is reached and the funding deadline has passed.  We want to avoid this so please spread the word.  Everything helps!

I know many of you Big Hollywood readers love and support our troops and have either served in our Armed Forces yourselves or have a loved one who has served or is currently serving.   I hope you will kindly consider supporting this wonderful project that will benefit our fellow Americans who put their lives on the line for our freedom.

Time, unfortunately, is running out to raise the money needed to complete the project by next summer.  This project will only be funded if at least $48,000 is pledged by Monday Jun 13, 11:43am EDT.  As I write this article, they currently have 65 backers who have pledged $13,141 with only 24 days to go.

I am certain that if we all help spread the word about this project, they will be able to meet their goal.

All you need to do is read some of the testimonials to see how PHWFFI has touched the lives of our wounded veterans:

“You (PHWFF) have offered me another avenue to continue recovering physically and emotionally. I thank you for what you have offered me. Please keep up the good work.” ~ A Maine Veteran

“I can’t even begin to explain how I feel about PHWFF/Volunteers and if I do I usually get choked up and my eyes get misty. Thank you, everybody, from the bottom of my heart for caring enough to volunteer and be involved.” ~ A Maine Veteran

“It really raised my self esteem, and it felt like I could do something, because lots of time we’re told we can’t do anything because we’ve got a mental illness.” ~ A California Veteran

“For my mind, it gives me energy, gives me the feeling of freedom that I never had before and also gets me closer to my kids.” ~ A California Veteran

“PHWFF helped in getting my head together during my recovery at Walter Reed. It was the perfect outlet for me while I was trying to adjust to my injuries and was a great help in broadening my horizons, giving me the hope and confidence that, no matter what my disabilities, I could still achieve and enjoy the activities of the outdoors and accomplish what I wanted to.” ~ SGT, USA, Walter Reed PHWFF wounded warrior

“As a Vietnam veteran myself who never felt quite welcome when I came home, I must tell you that I will never forget the tears streaming from the eyes of an amputee of the same era as he thanked me for the experience he was given on the East Outlet of the Kennebec River and Maine’s Moosehead Lake by the citizens of nearby Greenville, Maine, who spared no efforts or expense to host 9 veterans from Togus VA Medical Center in Augusta, Maine. “You know”, he said, “this is the first time I really felt my sacrifice was appreciated. They were wonderful to us and I never knew that I could actually fly fish again, as I did when I was young.” ~ A Maine Volunteer and Veteran

“Project Healing Waters saved my life…it saved me…it brought me back from a very deep and dark place…” ~  Army Captain Retired Eivind Forseth, one of the first participants of Healing Waters

A truly worthy project…and every bit helps.

Have a safe and blessed Memorial Day weekend with your loved ones and please keep our troops in your prayers.

Godspeed patriots.

Actress Kristy Swanson

I admit, I did have one spill at a rest stop today. LOL!  It was my own fault not getting out of my clips properly. So, of course, I fell in front of everyone! They picked me up, dusted me off, and patted me on the back.  Several guys said, “Oh, we’ve all done that several times!” They made me feel at home.

I love this ride and all these wonderful people I get to hang out with.  I pray tomorrow will be as rewarding as today. Everyone tells me it’s going to be tough and I am so sore after my first day. But I am bound and determined to make it to the finish on Saturday!

****

Riders as far as the eye can see

Today’s ride from San Simeon to Pismo Beach pushed us past the halfway point of the ride. It also put the R2R warriors into our traditional area of community support. Beginning with the reception in Cambria all the way down to Pismo, the towns and community really came out to show their appreciation for the sacrifice these wounded heroes have made to serve our country.

USMC Dan “Doc” Jacobs

Today also marked the addition of three riders. Chad Fleming and actor Kristy Swanson joined up and brought even more energy to the group. Even R2R stalwart Larry Jester finally made it out.

The Dog has a great view

The group left San Simeon in one big group. It was a great way for everyone to talk with those they have not yet met. The best part of the day was knowing that Otis Spunkmeyer fresh baked cookies would be waiting for us at the finish. The other thing this leg of the ride is known for is the outpouring of support from the kids at schools along the route. It is amazing the affect screaming kids can have on a bunch of grown men and women. The calls of “USA, USA…,” “We Love You!,” and “Go USA!” could be heard from blocks away. There is much to say about how much it means to us to see this outpouring of support. It really is fun to see

Kids welcome us to town

Tomorrow ends with Dennis Miller….. – John Wordin

Nate making the grade

Peter Gabriel once sang about the Big time. He probably did not have Big Sur in mind when he wrote that song, but it sure came to mind today as we set off from Carmel on our way to San Simeon. The 92-mile ride featured more than 7000 feet of climbing. The riders were in great spirits after the great event at Carmel Mission Ranch the night before.

In the song Gabriel talks about Big Boys, Big City, Big Adventure, and Big Heaven. Well, that pretty much sums up the day today: Big Hills, Big Scenery, Big Adventure and Big Heaven-on-Earth views.

At the ready...

The groups left in the early morning calm that led way to a Big Tailwind, especially the last 20 miles. The riders were almost giddy when they pulled into San Simeon with most saying that this was the best day of the ride. The riders worked hard to ride together to save energy and the inspiring site of Nate Hunt on the R2R USO handcycle along with the constant site of the beautiful landscape kept everyone going. The local NBC station was there to greet Nate as he pulled into the hotel and they also are doing a feature on Sgt. Anthony Brooks from Ft. Eustice. Tony is perhaps the tallest R2R participant, which is saying something. The Ft. Eustice group traveled the furthest to get to California and Sgt. Brooks is their leader here.

Cambria kids welcome the warriors

Many of the general public riders who have raised money in order to participate supported the warriors as they went up and over the constant undulations of the California coast. One of those couple was former Mercury cycling team member John Peters and his wife Brenda. They are participating in the ride and have never enjoyed riding a bike so much. It was great to see them with Scott and Lisa (also former Mercury staff) chatting about the good old days.

The Biggest difference was that they had more time to prepare coming into the ride. The clinics that were set up at the LA area VAs and Camp Pendleton really seemed to pay off. This program is something that R2R hopes to expand as more funding comes in.

John and Brenda

The day was capped off with a dinner next to the ocean that was sponsored by kids from the local high school. Just as they did last year, the kids created their own placemats and posters and put them out throughout the room. They baked dessert and gave the warriors a sense of support that is only going to grow as the riders head off south tomorrow towards Pismo Beach.

Day 6 was set to be a 35-mile ride from Hampton to Virginia Beach. During the course of the ride, the riders would be given a tour of Ft. Monroe, one of the most picturesque military bases in the world. It is also the location where the African slave ships would come to the new world in the 1600s and 1700s. While on base, we stopped to take the big team picture.

"American Idol" David Cook

After the tour, we had a stop at the nearby American Legion post to load up the bikes to drive through the Hampton/Norfolk tunnel.   With the help of the Virginia State and Virginia Beach Police, the ride restarted on the other side.

Ft. Monroe

We talk about how the ride is very family oriented. Today was the perfect example of how the family plays a big role in the overall healing part of a wounded warrior’s rehab. For the first time, Nate Hunt’s wife took the road on a bike to ride with her husband. She had been secretly training since the end of the Texas Challenge so that she could ride the last day today and surprise Nate. She has been a very valuable member of our support team along with Patty Bruder, Leah Edmonds, John and Jessica Austerman, Neil Stewart, and Scott and Lisa.

Nathan and Michelle Hunt

After our arrival at our final destination, many of the wounded warriors had their family including their kids waiting for them and cheering them for the challenge just completed. It was great to see the cheers and tears for a goal accomplished.

For the final piece of entertainment, we were all treated to former “American Idol” winner David Cook in concert at the beachfront. Thanks to the City of Virginia Beach and the USO for the experience. The coolest part was when David Cook sang Happy Birthday to Patty Collins on her 40th B-day.

R2R reaches Virginia Beach

It was a fitting end to a great week of fun, riding, and making friends for life.

Now we are all thinking about California… Hope you all can join us…..

Road2Recovery homepage here.

The 65 mile ride to Richmond along a good portion of Virginia Bike Route 1 promised to be a lot of fun.

Bike Route 1

Most everyone knows that Richmond was the capitol of the Confederacy, but did you know that: In 1775, Patrick Henry delivered his famous “Give me Liberty or Give me Death” speech in Richmond and in 1781, under the command of Benedict Arnold, Richmond was burned by British troops.

Everyone was all smiles today

Each of the R2R events are open to the Wounded Warriors as well as the general public. Many cycling enthusiasts really look for ways to support the troops and the Ride 2 Recovery provides them a unique way to shoe support. Not only can they help with their knowledge of cycling, but they can raise money for a worthy cause and have fun doing it because they get to do something that they love- Ride their Bike!.

Gary Gephart and Dr. Doug Wayne

In the Memorial Challenge there are quite a few riders who wanted to show their support for the wounded warriors and have a good time doing it. They come from near (Richmond native Dr. Doug Wayne) and far (Ellis Grossnickle and Scott Derr).

Ellis and Scott are co-workers who heard about R2R from the radio show done by Texas Challenge participant Steve Hayes. After that first impression, Scott and Ellis knew right away that they wanted to get involved and signed up to participate for the Memorial Challenge.

Ellis Grossnickle

In sort of a friendly rivalry, they wanted to see who could raise the most money. They both work for a company that manages financial assets so they put the rolodex to work.

All 3 men and the other non-military participants are having a great time interacting and hearing the stories of the wounded warriors. Dr. Wayne told us all the stories of the area we rode through today and as a member of the Richmond Cycling Club, they will have 20 friends join us tomorrow.

Also, the Governor of Virginia, Tim Kaine comes to the ride. Stay tuned for all of the fun from Day 4

Regards,
Ride 2 Recovery
Making a Difference in the Lives of Wounded Warriors
818.888.7091×1
818.710.1453 Fax
www.Ride2Recovery.com

Supporters include American Legion Auxiliary, USO, Star Trac, VFW, Otis Spunkmeyer, Sunkist, Giant Bicycles, League of American Bicyclists, Operation Rebound, American Legion Riders, Step Up 4 Vets, California American Legion, Coca-Cola, Shimano, Veltec Sports, Hincapie Sports, Alternative Vehicles, Hansen’s, Clif Bar, Rudy Project, DeFeet, Park Tool, Speedplay, ProMax, Chamois Butt’r, CytoSport, and Bicycling Magazine. R2R is an America Supports You Homefront Group.

250,000 people lined the route

The Parade features many Military groups and R2R was honored to be a part of such a great event.

The riders left the Parade area and headed down the GW parkway under the usually great escort of the American Legion Riders.

Heading down the Parade route

The ride group is made up of many different types of riders. There are many general public riders who are here to support the wounded warriors and enjoy a great cycling tour. There are the wounded warriors, many of them who are cycling for the first time. the last group is our support staff made up of volunteers, friends, and spouses. For many of the staff, this is there 2nd or 3rd time supporting the R2R program.

R2R with Gary Sinise and Lee Greenwood

Manassas is famous of course for staging 2 major battles in the Civil War, Bull Run 1 and Bull Run 2.

The First Battle of Bull Run, also known as the First Battle of Manassas (the name used by Confederate forces and still often used in the Southern United States), was fought July 21, 1861, near Manassas, Virginia. It was the first major land battle of the American Civil War.

Union Gen. McDowell’s ambitious plan for a surprise flank attack against the Confederate left was not well executed by his inexperienced officers and men, but the Confederates, who had been planning to attack the Union left flank, found themselves at an initial disadvantage.

The Confederates, under Stonewall Jackson,  launched a strong counterattack and as the Union troops began withdrawing under pressure, many panicked and it turned into a rout as they frantically ran in the direction of nearby Washington, D.C. Both sides were sobered by the violence and casualties of the battle, and they realized that the war would potentially be much longer and bloodier than they had originally anticipated.

In the Second Battle of Manassas, Lee, Jackson, and Longstreet drove the Union back to Centerville. It was Longstreet’s counter attack against the Union General Pope that sealed the victory. Tomorrow, the Riders will ride thru the battlefield area.

Tomorrow the group heads to Fredericksburg.

Regards,

Ride 2 Recovery
Making a Difference in the Lives of Wounded Warriors
818.888.7091×1
818.710.1453 Fax
www.Ride2Recovery.com

You can also follow the ride by joining our Facebook Ride 2 Recovery group.

Supporters include American Legion Auxiliary, USO, Star Trac, VFW, Otis Spunkmeyer, Sunkist, Giant Bicycles, League of American Bicyclists, Operation Rebound, American Legion Riders, Step Up 4 Vets, California American Legion, Coca-Cola, Shimano, Veltec Sports, Hincapie Sports, Alternative Vehicles, Hansen’s, Clif Bar, Rudy Project, DeFeet, Park Tool, Speedplay, ProMax, Chamois Butt’r, CytoSport, and Bicycling Magazine. R2R is an America Supports You Homefront Group.

Apparently, I am a right wing extremist. 

Janet Napolitano

You said this past week that the pro-Life, anti-illegal immigration, returning vets are to be flagged as being possible right-wing extremists.  Since I wasn’t in the service, I guess I missed the trifecta.  But two-outta-three ain’t bad.  In advance of your grilling, I’m sorry… profile interview…I will list some personal information for you so that my incrimination and persecution can go more smoothly.

First off, yes, I am PRO-LIFE.  This means that I hold human life to be precious, sacrosanct, and worthy of protecting, particularly when it is an innocent baby, either newborn or preborn.  And yes, contrary to the intellectual Luddites that comprise the abortion enthusiast ilk…I believe that a preborn infant is a human being.  It’s not a dog, it’s not a giraffe, it’s not a tumor, it’s not an “unviable tissue mass”.  It’s a human being.

I don’t believe in assassinating abortion doctors. (See above re: protecting life.)  I don’t believe in bombing or in other ways damaging or destroying abortion clinics.  I believe in non-violent persuasion through the peaceful discourse and exchange of ideas.  It is my firm belief that those adhering to my point of view have logic and moral common sense on their side; and I believe that with all things being equal, I can persuade my ideological adversary to at least a partial acceptance of the veracity of my points.  And if I can’t, my discourse is to hold them up in prayer. 

Which brings me to my Faith.

I am an unapologetic CHRISTIAN.  I am proud and privileged to stand up for Jesus Christ.  By my permission and urging, He orders the direction of my life.  Sort of a ‘Jesus take the wheel’ type of thing.  I’ve run ‘The Gary Show’ for too many fruitless seasons, hoping I’d get picked up for another round of petty selfish debauchery, ego-centrism, and narcissistic hedonism until I was on my face sucking wind at the utter sad futility of my pathetically meaningless existence.   Enter the Lamb of God to epiphanically disabuse me of that notion.  Cue my shock and utter amazement at the attendant tears of joy.

I am PRO-MILITARY.  I get choked up when I hear the Star Spangled Banner, when I hear of a soldier or Marine or SEAL was wounded or killed.  I think the men and women we have serving in our volunteer military force are the bravest, brightest, and best among us.  These people are willing to stand in the gap for us wherever the brace of Liberty and Freedom needs shoring up.  They shoulder a rifle and stand at the wall of our peril, and give silent witness that we won’t be overrun in our sleep.  They provide for us, in this dangerous and hostile world, what we crave — our peace of mind. 

I was recently given two medallions as a thank you for participating in a celebrity shooting event to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.  One bore the insignia of the Navy SEALs, the other that of the U.S. Marine Corps.  A Marine Sergeant Major presented the medallions in a small ceremony with about eight of his Marines.  It was a solemn occasion, and I felt woefully unworthy for the respect afforded me.  (Hey, I’m just an actor; these guys are the real deal.)  The Sergeant Major placed the large coins in his palm and handed them to me in a rock-firm handclasp, and he held my grip as he humbly thanked me for my participation.  The looks in these fine men and women’s eyes held such a strong and sonorous gaze of pride, and duty, and honor…  I was stirred to my core.  And I was moved almost beyond my capacity to hold it in.  Those serving in our military are the guarantors of our Freedom, and I love them for it. 

I am also unapologetically PRO-GUN.  I own a pistol, a rifle, and a shotgun.  And I practice with them frequently.  It’s a dual purpose – shooting is a lot of fun, but it also has practical applications.  Protecting my family is of paramount concern — always.  Plus, it’s an American tradition that I, for one, do not want to see fall by the wayside.  To know the comfort and security of being ‘skilled at arms’ is something all of us citizens should cultivate — we family men and/or homeowners who fancy ourselves to be ‘standing guard at the mouth of the cave’. 

I have the highest respect for those who would put on a policeman’s uniform and patrol our streets to keep us safe.  But even the cops will tell you – they can’t be everywhere all the time.   A lot can happen between the time the 911 call is made and the patrol unit actually shows up. 

Do I think every sane, law-abiding adult citizen in this country should have the right to own and carry a gun?  Absolutely.  Do I think everyone should carry a gun?  No.  Not everyone has the temperament, the ability, nor the desire to be a Defender of innocent life.  It takes training, focus, restraint and discipline.  Not everyone is cut out for police work, not everyone belongs in the military…and likewise I know many, many people who probably should not carry a gun.  But that should be their choice to make.  Otherwise, what does it mean to be a ‘free country’? 

But freedom comes with responsibility.  In order to use that tool, that weapon, that gun effectively… one must train with it.  Though never in the military myself, I have trained with many former military and police personnel.  My rifle instructor was a former Marine sergeant, my handgun instructor a cop.  Good, decent people cultivating skill at arms. There are many good shooting schools around.  Invest the money, time and effort to become proficient with the skill that could save your life. 

I have never hunted anything in my life.  I do not believe that the 2nd Amendment was put in place in order to secure the rights of sportsmen and hunters.  I know the truth – because I studied the Constitution, the Federalist Papers, and biographies of our founding fathers.  The 2nd Amendment was put in place to resist tyranny wherever it prevents itself – from without…or from within.  The 2nd Amendment is also the guarantor of our Freedom.

I am ANTI-ILEGAL IMMIGRATION.  We are a nation of laws, and I don’t think that just because so many people are racing across our borders illegally on a daily basis that that should be any justification for saying that it’s all right to tolerate it.  FTS!  Stop illegal immigration.  This is not the children’s game, Red Rover.  (You know, “red rover, red rover, send Suzie over!”..and then Suzie runs and tries to break through the line, and if she does, she gets to stay.)  FTS!  If citizens of another country break through the line, I’m sorry, they gotta go back!  I don’t care if they’re fine, lovely people who really really really reeeeeeaaaaalllllllyyyy want to be in the U.S.  If they have broken the law, they gotta go back.  The late Congressman Sonny Bono said it best, “What part of ‘illegal’ don’t you understand?”

I am a small-government, capitalist CONSERVATIVE.  The term ‘compassionate conservative’ is a pandering redundancy coined by the Bushes.  It assumes conservatism itself to be devoid of compassion.  But the practice of rewarding a man for his labor in a mutual and volitional system of exchange in which one’s own fortune is only enhanced by the acquisition of fortune by his peers is compassion in its essence.  It’s not a zero-sum game.  A rising tide lifts all ships.  Though some would prefer to drown themselves within the prison of their own disbelief, laziness, or negativity; the true conservative is only too happy to share fortune-making secrets, vital words of guidance and advice, and even the encouraging and supportive pat on the back for effort. 

The capitalist thrives on profit; but profit is not the thing of avarice, hoarding, or stinginess.  Profit, as an extension of a man’s spirit, is ripe with generosity and honor and mutual exchange of happiness.  My money means nothing apart from and unto itself – it only has value for what it is able to purchase.  And the owner of that which I seek to purchase holds the same relationship with his money.  Ultimately, money is the measure of a man’s efforts and abilities.  The merchant sets the price for a commodity at a price he thinks he can get.  If he’s correct in his assessment of its value, it will sell;  if not, it won’t.  And he then lowers the price until it does.  The buyer gauges its worth and measures against his personal budget.  If he think he can afford it, he buys, if not he doesn’t. 

Money is merely a practical and easy means of exchange.  And deeper than that, it is a fulfillment of a promise; mutually agreed upon by men and women of honor.   Free and volitional exchange in the marketplace is the cornerstone of our way of life.  No government necessary in the process – unless a commodity is found to be not as represented; and then we have anti-fraud laws on the books.  (Yes, the phrase ‘caveat emptor’ should remind us that occasionally a Bernie Madoff grabs the loot and runs.)  But if someone in the marketplace abandons honor and instead defrauds, robs, steals, extorts, or otherwise cheats – they go to jail.  Simple and straightforward – complicated only by those who would exploit their power and insinuate their imagined need to ‘regulate’.  That’s when the trouble starts.

I, and millions and millions like me, am SELF-SUFFICENT.   And, Janet, I do understand that with all my other “radical right-wing extremist” proclivities…this one will probably piss you off the most. 

You see…we don’t really need you.

Apart from keeping terrorists locked up, or scrounging around on their side of the pond, you really don’t have any need to come after us, infringe in our rights, or otherwise make life difficult for us.  I’m sorry, did I say ‘terrorists’?  I mean Overseas Contingency Operators.

But my sincere note of information to you, Ms. Napolitano and to all of you in government:  Aside from protecting us from our enemies… leave us alone.

Oh, I am grateful for our military, for our police department, our fire department…but that’s about it.  Okay, there’s a need for a federal, state and local government, I guess, on a limited basis.  But they should all be volunteer jobs – including the President of the United States.  Volunteer.  As in, no pay.  Forget all these career politicians.

What if ‘serve the people’ really mean that for once?

And here’s one that should put me into the front of the Napolitano rolodex:  My family and I … we don’t need the ‘Internal Revenue ‘Service’.  Don’t you love the moxy – they call themselves a ‘service’.  Well, I for one would like to officially go on record:  I am unhappy with the service!

(Yeah, I know – here come the string of audits for the rest of my life.)

The IRS pounded my father all his life.  And though he hired a very bright and honest and conscientious CPA, they hounded and extorted a fortune from him during his 85 years of life.  He always played by their rules, never tried to end-run them or evade anything, always acted and dealt honestly in his business tax situations.  But they wanted his soul.  My father, a man who employed hundreds (and thereby provided them a living) was treated as some sort of criminal at every turn.  He was assumed to be a tax cheat and greedy evil fat-cat by this ‘service’ run by envious, sniveling government hacks, out to stick it to the Capitalist.  With nothing to conclude it, he was treated like an ignoble scoundrel, trying to pull a fast one; and solely because he was financially successful.  And this was a man who, in my very early years, taught me the value of always telling the truth.  “Trust is a precious thing – you lose it once, it’s gone forever.”  My dad was a ‘handshake deal’ kind of guy.  He believed his word was his bond, and it was sealed with a handshake. 

My, how times have changed. 

So there it is; me in a nutshell.  (Okay take your shot, yeah I said nutshell.)  You now know how incredibly dangerous I am.  I say this with only part of my tongue in cheek.  (No, I don’t speak with forked tongue.  Hey, I’m part Navajo.)  And Ms. Napolitano, I only single you out, due to the very inappropriate and well, yes, stupid, remarks you made regarding our returning vets.  But I take these remarks very personally.  And I’m now speaking to everyone in your administration, including The Boss. 

You see…I am dangerous.  Very dangerous.  But not in the way you may think.  You call me an extremist.  Maybe I am.  I love Liberty…Freedom…God…Country…Honor.  I do love these things extremely.  But I am not a danger to this country, or any of the law-abiding citizens who inhabit it.  I am, however, a very great danger to those who would attempt to eradicate those freedoms and liberties and American ideals.  Because I speak the truth.  And I represent in my ideals the very same ideals that this great nation was founded upon.  And those of you who would use your deception and disinformation, your slogans and lies, your pandering and class-warfare pimping methods… to turn neighbor against neighbor, group against group, race against race…yes, to you I am dangerous.  For, you see…the American people are waking up to who you really are.    You don’t stand for Liberty and Honor; you stand for Career Advancement and Personal Power.  You don’t stand for God and Country…you stand for Subjugation…Ego…and Control.  You don’t stand for Freedom; you stand for Posturing the Heroic Image.

We’ve got your number.  Me, and a hundred million just like me.  What I would suggest, if you actually do have a vestige of honor and sensibility…is to change your ways.  Change your core values.  Change your Alinsky-Chompsky ideology.  Change your quest to become Emperor of the Universe…for the Emperor is naked.   Those of us not wearing beer goggles know it, and the numbers are growing, quickly. 

“You can fool some of the people, some of the time…”

But hey – I don’t want this to sound completely negative to you.  I’m willing to help.  Give me a call, I’ll come in, we’ll have a chat, and I’ll help point out to you guys how’ve you’ve gone terribly wrong – and what we can do to get this country back on the right track.  So Janet… call me?  Write me on my website, I’ll give you my cell.  I’ll be here waiting. 

Put on the coffee.

His tears flowed from the blessing of the little girl — the one with the angel-voice. And, as we stood in ovation in the American Legion Hall her lyric, “… I once was lost, but now I’m found. Was blind, but now I see” reminded him why his military service and the forty-odd years since had all been worthwhile: her Freedom, our Freedom.

As our tearful eyes locked, he restrained in a whisper, “See that? That’s why I lost my legs in Vietnam.” But then he smiled, “losing my legs is the best thing that ever happened to me… it’s why I am here right now, and it’s given me a great life.” 

Of course, I can never truly know the depth of my new friend Duane Wagner’s struggles in meeting his post Vietnam war challenges, but I was privileged to share with him a true moment of ‘amazing grace’ in the knowledge that his sacrifices – and all those of his compatriots — were not in vain.

Duane Wagner (rt) leading the group in Texas

That beautiful moment was but one of countless expressions of dignity and courage that I witnessed during my participation in this year’s Ride 2 Recovery “Don’t Mess With Texas Challenge” – a 350 mile bicycle ride from Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas to Arlington’s Texas Ranger’s Ballpark, Mar. 30 – Apr. 4, 2009.

Ride 2 Recovery is produced by the Fitness Challenge Foundation, in partnership with the Military and the VA Volunteer Service Office, to benefit Mental and Physical Rehabilitation Programs that feature cycling as the core activity.

When Former Marine John Wordin, R2R’s founder and a world-class cyclist, extended me an invitation I jumped at the opportunity to make a journey with some of America’s heroic Wounded Warriors.

Little did I realize the abject humbling ahead, both physical and emotional, once I’d cinched up my cleats, smeared the recommended “liberal amounts” of Chamois Butt’r® upon my “sensitive areas” and saddled up with Purple Heart Veterans ranging from the Vietnam War to today’s Global War on Terror, and our team of fellow riders & supporters from the American Legion Auxiliary and USO.

To ride along the back roads of Texas into 40-50 mph headwinds for 35 miles with such brave men as Nathan Hunt, who gave both of his legs in service to America during Operation Iraqi Freedom, is among the most profoundly exhausting yet uplifting experiences of my life.

Nate and Adam

We barely spoke during those five grueling hours, but Nate’s determination and resolve to endure spoke volumes to me. I will never again hear the words “I can’t” from an able-bodied person without thinking of him. Yes you can, my friends. Yes you can!

Luke “Joe Dirt” Goedert — his lower back shattered by an IED and now held together with titanium plates and screws — was pumping along on his hand-bike one non-descript Texas back road afternoon.

Students from Austin cheer on the heroes

As I pulled alongside he barked, “Hey ‘Animal Mother’,” a character I once portrayed, “thanks for coming… I don’t think too many of those guys in Hollywood would do this. But that’s okay,” he sang out, “don’t apologize for them. They’re the ones missing out!”

And with that truth, we chortled and muscled our bikes onward to the awaiting roadside USO Canteen support vehicle and its welcoming diet of tasty PB&J’s, hot soup, beef Jerky, and ice cold PowerAde.

When you join R2R, you’ll also get to meet American cycling legend Wayne Stetina. Wayne is a three-time Olympian (‘72, ‘76 &’80), and eleven-time U.S. national champion. Among the many things he’ll teach you will be the finer points of drafting in a peloton (look it up), and why it’s so important to keep pace within your group, especially when struggling into a headwind.

And, should you fall behind, Wayne, John or one of the stronger team riders will be there to lend you a boosting hand on your backside to get you caught up.

On day three we were deeply honored with a hot spaghetti dinner hosted by Ft. Hood’s III Corps Commanding Officer Lt. General Rick Lynch, one of General Petraeus’ chief architects of America’s successful surge in Iraq. The next morning, Sgt. Major Ciotolo and a thousand of his loyal troops and support personnel enthusiastically cheered us 60 miles windward towards Waco.

President Bush with the R2R group

Our final stop in Cleburne, presented Rep. Chet Edwards (D-TX), Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee and his constituents — among them our former Commander in Chief, George W. Bush (R-TX). They met, mingled and joked with us. They also listened to the vital transitional rehabilitative concerns and needs of our Wounded Warriors.

These powerful Texas gentlemen, in a bipartisan/nonpartisan show of goodwill, then gave us a hearty send-off on our last day’s ride into Arlington and its Texas Rangers vs. KC Royal’s game.

There, on a glorious Saturday afternoon, our ride’s General David Blackledge, America’s highest ranking officer wounded in Iraq, and Nate Hunt each threw out ceremonial first pitches to the cheers of the assembled crowd.

Congressman Chet Edwards with Chad Fleming

To those of my Entertainment Industry brethren who have until now missed out on contributing their time (and/or cash please) with our American troops and veterans, whom we all support: “You talk the talk”, pace Animal Mother, “Do you walk the walk?” Or better yet, will you please help ride the ride?

Skip your spinning or yoga class for a few days to join an upcoming Ride 2 Recovery event in a show of support to our heroic military men and women and their courageous families.

In my mind, this journey loudly echoes my new friend Duane the warrior’s sentiment that this experience is one of the best things that ever happened to me. I promise that it will change your life for the better as well.

C’mon, let’s saddle up!

– Adam Baldwin is a Hollywood actor with 30 years experience in film and television. He is currently working on the NBC series “Chuck”, and his credits include the role of “Animal Mother” in Stanley Kubrick’s Vietnam War classic “Full Metal Jacket”.

For more information on Ride 2 Recovery including to join Adam or Ed Begley Jr. on an upcoming ride or make a donation: Go to www.ride2recovery.com

Major General David Blackledge is not a superhero. He’s a human hero. 

In February of 2004, Major General Blackledge’s convoy was ambushed in Iraq. The interpreter, who was sitting next to him, was shot through the head. Taking fire, the vehicle rolled. But the survivors were able to escape. He sustained a broken back and ribs, with other injuries requiring eleven months of recovery and physical therapy.  

Fifteen months after the ambush, Major General Blackledge was deployed back to Iraq. While in Amman, Jordan for meetings, he was in one of three popular hotels that were struck by terrorist bombs. The explosions killed over 55 people and injured over 110. He suffered a neck injury. 

On the way to Arlington….

Major General Blackledge has demonstrated his courage during three combat tours (he also fought in the Persian Gulf War). He has been awarded five Bronze Star Medals as well as the two Purple Hearts he received for combat injuries. 

Major General Blackledge also has shown courage on a different front. He has been open about his struggles with post-traumatic stress after both incidents in which he was wounded. He’s the first U.S. Army general to acknowledge suffering nightmares, flashbacks and a short attention span.  

Because of his bravery, other soldiers have been empowered to step forward and talk about their experiences. He helped to erase the stigma.  

Major General Blackledge participated in the Road 2 Recovery’s recent “Don’t Mess With Texas Challenge” to support injured members of the military who have given so much to their country. The ride began at the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio and finished 345 miles later at the Texas Rangers’ Ameriquest Field in Arlington. 

 
Riding with the USO’s Jeff Hill

“Road 2 Recovery provides our wounded warriors an opportunity to set challenging goals and then meet or exceed them within a supportive environment,” said Major General Blackledge, who is now Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Mobilization and Reserve Affairs. “The extended, multi-day rides like the Texas Challenge re-create conditions that military members are accustomed to, such as accomplishing a difficult mission as a team and the bonding that occurs from sharing a common experience together.

“An aspect of the long rides that I totally underestimated was the overwhelming support, generosity and gratefulness demonstrated by the local communities and veterans organizations. Participants come away with a greater sense of their own inner strength and capabilities, they learn to focus on possibilities rather than limitations and they gain a greater appreciation that they are not alone. The Road 2 Recovery program is truly uplifting and life-affirming.”

 
Throwing out the first pitch

Major General Blackledge pedaled his Jamis cyclocross bike, which has a steel frame and a little wider tires than a traditional road bike to give him more cushioning because of the lingering effects of his combat injuries.

Although he only recently received medical clearance to get back on a bike, Major General Blackledge welcomed the opportunity to offer encouragement and hope to soldiers who suffer post-traumatic stress with his first-hand story of recovery. 

“Hey, I’ve been through this. I’m not just telling you something that I’ve read off slides or a pamphlet. This is something I’ve experienced. It’s important to come forward if you’ve got these issues. No one should have to deal with this on their own. The help is there. This is no longer a mystery. The medical and psychological practitioners know how to get you through this and help you out.”

He said “Road 2 Recovery recognizes that bicycling does wonders for those with psychological injuries. I’m hoping through this program and others, we can get this message out. These are wounded warriors just like the ones with physical wounds. This will help them heal.” 

Major General Blackledge, who has a quiet, but strong demeanor, was raised in a family with a rich tradition of military service. His father retired after 30 years in the U.S. Army. His grandfather, who served with General Douglas MacArthur, was captured by the Japanese at Bataan and died in a slave labor camp.  

Major General Blackledge is the proud father of three daughters. His wife, Iwona, an officer in the U.S. Air Force, has also served two tours in Iraq as a critical care nurse. 

An avid cyclist, Major General Blackledge was one of the founders of the West Point Cycling Club. He also has competed in triathlons and the American Birkebeiner, a grueling 54-kilometer cross-country ski race in Wisconsin. 

“There’s just something magical about being on a bicycle,” he said. “Maybe it goes back to when you’re a kid and you first learn to ride a bike. You feel a sense of freedom. That feeling just stays with you.”

Story by Sharon Raboin

For more Info see: TheRoad2Recovery.org, and join us on Facebook