Photo:
Top In the field Iraq
Bottom; Retired infantryman Brendan Marrocco uses his transplanted arm to brush his hair back.
As Africa and the middle east seem bent on self destruction. They could take a note from this soldiers book of life.
He became a quadruple amputee during the war in Iraq. At the age of 21. He has self determination and has made it his goal to carry on with life. Please check this link and give this young soldier a thumbs up, for grit and determination. Bravo Zulu Soldier.
Marrocco's message to other's facing similar challenges? Don't give up hope. "Life always get better. You're still alive ... just be stubborn. Work your ass off."
http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/29/health/vet-arm-transplant/index.html?hpt=hp_t2
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-21248988
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Meanwhile Canada donates 14 million tax dollars to Mali. In fact 455 million dollars has been raised. Unfortunately I doubt these funds will reach the people who are in most need. I feel that it will be like Haiti after 2 years and Billions of aid in dollars and everything imaginable, in the way of food, medecines, clothing, temporary shelters etc. The everyday Haitians are still living in abject poverty.
I feel that donated dollars should be monitored by perhaps the World Bank. Not local politicians and tribal leaders.
These cash donations could be far better used at home. Veterans, Old Age persons and child care are a few of the areas these funds could be better used.
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As Canadian JTF2 (Special Forces) are training in neigbouring Niger, it may be the start of a creeping mission.
I certainly believe in using our troops to protect our embassies and high commissions around the world.
I also believe that Canada's troops are a vital part of our Nation. Soldiers have served well during every major conflict. What I would like to see is an honest straightforward answer from our Government. Either we are or we are not going to assist in the combat training of the African soldiers of Mali.
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The BBC has a good story on the terrorist groups that are now spreading throughout the Sahara.
The insurgents that were driven from Timbuctoo are the lower than the proverbial snakes belly. ( my apologies to the snake) To destroy historical manuscripts and artifacts , for no reason other than their deranged mental state.
In Syria with the discovery of young men hands tied behind their backs and shot, is also a terrible act.
As I rant on, I watched on CTV news the whipping of a Malian woman after the terrorists had gone.
These Islamic fronts certainly have no morals nor love of mankind.
What a sad world.
Please remember our Troops and their families where ever they may be serving.
Nil Sine Labore
Robby
