On The Futility Of War, Part Two, Or, Twelve Times The Charm?

by: fake consultant

Mon Dec 14, 2009 at 02:10:46 AM PST

Just like in a Cecil B. DeMille movie, we have a cast of millions, we have epic scenery, and we have made acquaintance with someone who will go on to perform a heroic act.

Unlike your typical Hollywood production, however, this movie is not going to have a happy ending-in fact, you could make the argument that it's not over yet.

So wrap yourself up in something comfortable, grab something to drink...and when you're ready, we're packing up and heading to the Alps.

On The Futility Of War, Part One, Or, Snow Becomes A Lethal Weapon

by: fake consultant

Sun Dec 13, 2009 at 00:41:30 AM PST

We're going to spend the better part of four years in the Italian Alps (or, to be more accurate, what was intended to be the Italian Alps), and by the time we're done, nearly 400,000 soldiers will have been killed-and 60,000 of those will have died as a result of avalanches that were set by one side or the other.

In the middle of the story: a mountaineer and soldier who was so highly regarded that even those who fought against him accorded him the highest honors they could muster, creating a legend that lives on to this very day.

And even though a young Captain Erwin Rommel fought in these battles...it's not him.

Oh, by the way: did I mention that there are also some handy object lessons for anyone who might be thinking about fighting a war in Afghanistan?

Well, there are, Gentle Reader, so follow along, and let's all learn something today.

On Giving Thanks The European Way, Or, Freedom: It's The New Black!

by: fake consultant

Wed Nov 25, 2009 at 09:29:49 AM PST

Instead, in an effort to remind you what this holiday can really stand for, we'll meet some people who are thankful today for simply being free.

It's a short story today, but an especially touching one, so follow along and we'll take a little hop across the Atlantic for a trip you should not miss.