I had the privilege of judging Freshman Color Guard at the Citadel today. I enjoyed myself a great deal and learned a bunch from the instructor from Airport High School AJROTC. My DrillMaster Performance Critiques are linked below. For these files, I’m trying something new. Instead of uploading to my separate server, I’ve uploaded to my website and loaded them …
The Difference Between Achievement and Success
“My mother drew a distinction between achievement and success. She said that achievement is the knowledge that you have studied and worked hard and done the best that is in you. Success is being praised by others. That is nice but not as important or satisfying. Always aim for achievement and forget about success.” Helen Hayes Actress Photo courtesy, helenhayes.com
Regarding Competition
Some, over the years, have said competition is a bad thing because little Johnny or Suzy get their feelings hurt. The instance given is the game Musical Chairs; all of the kids are running around then one doesn’t make it to a chair and “loses,” there is only one “winner.” What a sad way to look at such a fun …
Making Things More “Ceremonialer”
“Ceremonialer” is the term I created as I’ve watched members of the military, first responders (many who are veterans), and cadets perform movements that do not bring any more reverence or honor to what they are doing at ceremonies becuase these movements or techniques are based on ego. When it comes to the American flag and rendering honors, never should …
First Night Jitters
One’s first performance can be a little stressful. Here are some words of wisdom to remember for just that situation.
The Three Types of Respect
There are three type of respect? And you probably thought there was only one type. I did initially. Thank you very much to my Facebook friends back in 2017 who chimed in giving me their requested feedback for this article. Very interesting! Your job gives you authority. Your behavior gives you respect. Hommer Homteam Smith I need to make one …
The Honor Guard Equipment Checklist
These are suggestions for your team. Ceremonial Equipment 9.5′ flagstaffs with spade finial 4′ x 5.5′ (4′ x 6′) Indoor/Parade fringed flags US (0216) State Military Service Law enforcement Fire (7784) EMS (7625) POW/MIA (7724) Colors harnesses (the best for training) Colors harnesses (the best for performance) Flag Stands These are beautiful These are economical (AMG) Floor Stand Adapters for …
When to Drape the Deceased
My firefighting friends in California had a great question for me. Here are my thoughts. What a tragedy to lose a fellow firefighter, emergency medic, or law enforcement officer, let alone a member of the armed forces. However, it does happen and all too often. Since we know that death comes to us all and that it is just a …
The Misplaced Respect of Stars For Our Troops
A while back I noticed pictures of scouts (male and female) cutting the canton (blue field) from American flags readying them for disposal.
Communication and Respect
In the movie, Ghost Busters, Egon Spengler says, “Print is dead.” To some extent, I agree, but words on the screen are alive and well.