Thanks for sharing, Jim. Can't imagine what that'd be like. I always appreciate hearing about such things. Too often we take for granted the freedoms we have, forgetting what went into obtaining/maintaining them.
Thanks Lon....
In re-reading my post, I need to apologize for the tone. I'm always on others about this, and then I make an edgy post myself, so my apology to anyone bothered by the tone. No excuse, but a great friend from my gov/military days is one of those missing from the main Abaco island, he got stuck there trying to help a friend according to his wife, now he's missing and presumed dead. I have a tendency to overreact, forgetting that this is real life also, and the forum is here as a voice, and has little value if people can't express their frustration, regardless of the level, whether I agree or not.
So instead, I'll pay tribute to my friend David, I wouldn't be here if not for him......
In 1973, while working for one of our intell agencies, I was on a mission in Southeast Asia doing POW recovery work. We HALO'd in during the early morning hours with a team of 8 guys. We did the job, and while exiting to our pick up zone we were chased and I took a hit that went through my back and exited my abdomen. I didn't even realize I was shot given the adrenaline running through me, but once it was pointed out by another operative, the pain took over. The PZ was hot as well, which made pick up incredibly difficult. When Medevac ID'd a new zone, we moved the POW's and two other wounded guys to that zone. Being in charge, and because the bleeding had appeared to be stopped, I stayed back with several others to provide cover support and we waited for another pick-up. Two Loaches showed up and grabbed the remaining guys and said they'd be back for me. Before they got back I was taking too much fire, was scared out of my mind, so I took off, found another location and tried to convey my location, but was unsuccessful. I spent several hours evading, and then heard a Loach near me, I shot a flare, and then as expected started taking fire in my direction. The Loach was taking fire as well, but he pulled me out anyway, and took two rounds in the process (leg and arm). He saved my life....became a great friend....and I wish I could have done the same for him.....
He's one of the reasons I left the Intell biz to fly attack helicopters.
If he's somehow reading this....I love you my friend, my kids wouldn't be here without you....and on my honor I'll be there for your family going forward......
Jimmy