History, and Other Points of Interest
Every year we become more divided on several fundamental issues, one of which is the events from 16 years ago. It amazes me to remember the unity that followed the horror, but even then I knew that the patriotism and pride would fade from public memory. However, everyone who experienced that day will never forget what they were doing when they first realized that our world was in the process of an immense moment… Continue reading “Annual Reflections”
This was my final paper for my Diplomacy and War II class – the final academic requirement for my Bachelor’s in Military History.
I have a couple of minor issues with this product, and the instructor had noticed. First was the inclusion of the American Revolutionary War – a point that I had intended to incorporate a bit better in describing the power of public opinion when it comes to diplomacy. The second was something that resonates strongly with me to this day, but still missed the point a bit in being included – social media and foreign policy. Perhaps I am being a bit too critical, but in order to critique, one must be able to understand not only what is wrong, but why it is problematic… Continue reading “Post-Soviet Russian Diplomacy and the Western Media”
For years, I had been debating on whether or not I would actually write this particular story from my younger days. Personally, I have always found that some stories are funnier when they are told, rather than read. However, a question lead to the inevitable “second act” where I have made a valiant attempt to capture my thought processes as the events unfolded… Continue reading “Beep.”
Sometimes, there is never a simple answer because the question brings back too many memories…
The day I received my DD-214.
This sounds odd, I know, but those of us who have sat waited, reviewed, and received that one important piece of paper can appreciate the finality it represents. Continue reading ““What is one thing you hated when you served in the US armed forces?””
The assignment for War and Diplomacy II was to write an account of a historic diplomatic event from the perspective of a key figure involved. I chose Jimmy Carter’s meeting with the former hostages released from 444 days of Iranian captivity… Continue reading “First-Person History”
Followers of this blog have more than likely seen not only an increase in frequency of posts, but also a wandering series of themes over the last few weeks. I could easily place the blame on the confusing wind in my sails as my academic life slowly unravels like a dying tornado, but the truth is that I am trying to force myself to write more. Perhaps it is the backlog of ideas lodged in my head over the years or the stories that I feel need to be captured, but my time spent here in front of the computer looking over what I have already shared has been enlightening. Continue reading “On Writing”
Examine the life and military biography of William “Billy” Mitchell (1879-1936). How did Mitchell’s professional military career and experiences inform his views on the possibilities of American air power? What is his legacy to American air power?
They cyclic nature of history provides an interesting look at the theories and warnings espoused by Mitchell in the 1920’s and modern day indicators which suggest that the lessons learned almost a century ago remain unheeded stories from the past. Mitchell’s career in the Army was one of unprecedented upward movement within the ranks – at the age of 18, he was the youngest officer, later to be the youngest captain at the age of 24.[1] It was his appointment to the Army General Staff by the time he was 33 that showed that his rise in the ranks was not merely one of connection, but of sheer ability and talent.[2] It could be suggested that such a rapid rate of advancement proved to be his later undoing regarding a temperament which was charismatic, yet demanding and unapologetic.[3]
