Checking In

[North Bender]

Hello all,

After 1.5 years in eastern Afghanistan with the Army Corps of Engineers I have a lot of reading to do here.  In AFG the Army computer system was a little unpredictable on what sites I could log in to and I've got a pot of coffee and my best reading glasses on and I'm going to catch up.

It's good to see familiar handles here.  But Rawhide Rio resigned?!

I thought he was a top notch moderator with nothing but common sense to add.

Here's a photo from eastern Khost province with the hills of Pakistan in the distance.

It's good to handle USFA SAAs again.  A Berreta M9 has no class.

[Blackpowder Burn]

North Bender

Welcome back and thanks for your work and sacrifice in that benighted part of the world!

I have to agree with you, there is just nothing like the feel of a well tuned premium single action revolver - especially when loaded with the Holy Black.

[Doc Sunrise]

Hi North Bender,

I know I speak for most of us here when I say my hat goes off to you and all Service Members for your brave dedication and service to our country.  I am very happy to see you being able to take time off.  It is good to hear from you again!

Here is my favorite somewhat revised toast by John Wayne which has always stuck with me.  Here it is to all Service Members:

To God, our Country, the Armed Services, and our Family, and for all the good they stand for!

[Capt. John Fitzgerald]

Hey, North Bender!!!
Great to finally see you back here on the board!  We were gettin' a bit worried. 
Just got back from DJ's.  Things are going strong there - Bruce and Tina are doing well.
Glad to see that you are alive and well.
Take Care,
Don 

[jdpress]

North Bender:

Welcome back and a sincere thank you for all of your service to our country and especially for the extended, 18 month tour in Afghanistan.  Your efforts and the risks you faced on a daily basis are most appreciated.

JD Press

[RRio]

Hello North Bender!

I'm glad to see you are back, safe and sound. Thank you so much for your service to our country.

Yes, I resigned as moderator, but I still pop in here from time to time.

And, yeah, I agree with you about the M9, I'd much rather pack a USFA SAA, even in a combat situation. A SAA was good enough for Patton.