Don’t know you, but I found myself on your blogroll. Thanks. I’ve added you to mine. You can find my email addy at my blog: thinksink.

Left by Jeff H on January 31st, 2005 at 11:41 pm

Mr. Jeff,
I like your milblogging and thots on sundry outdoorsy activities. I’m blogrolling UrbanGrounds on my blog at Voice in the Wilderness, a conservative blog serving Austin and Central Texas.

Left by Travis Fell on February 1st, 2005 at 12:24 am

Thanks Jeff and Travis.

I’ve started reading both of your blogs, and am enjoying your writing and perspectives.

Travis, it’s always a bonus (and a rarity) to find another conservative blogger in the Austin area. You’ve both been added to my blog roll of daily reads.

Left by Robbie on February 1st, 2005 at 10:13 am

Ooooh. A plethora of conservative Austin bloggers. I’ve hit the jackpot.

Left by Amy on July 22nd, 2005 at 11:52 pm

Hello Robbie from Charlie Medical Company 215th Brigade Support Bn.
I am a former resident of the People’s Republic of Austin. I was a nurse who joined the army in 2000. (Prior service 1988-1992 where I was an Arabic linguist with the SF).
If you are a former 91Bravo you would now be a 91Whiskey. They are now learning Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC3)
Give a holler if you’re ever up in this godforsaken bit of wasteland called Killeen.

Left by MrMooj on December 6th, 2005 at 6:36 pm

hi, i just wanted to say great blog. i am a pro death penalty advocate. we voted for you on our board. a member there, blakely, was responsible for getting all the members to participate. my special thanks to blakely who is saddly missed. please make contact, blakely..ilene

Left by ilene on March 10th, 2006 at 6:59 pm

First off the site kicks ass, you will never find a site like this in California, I am suprised my internet provider allowed yours through.

I cannot wait to catch up at the reunion, from the looks of things we share a great deal in common. I guess you can take the boy out of Conroe, but you couldn’t beat the Conroe out of the man.

Wayne Altman

Left by Wayne Altman on June 12th, 2006 at 8:03 pm

Wayne — nice to hear from an old classmate. I understand being an American-loving conservative in a sea of anti-American liberalism; I live in Austin, afterall.

You’d be surprised by some of the good conservative blogs in CA.

Try Annika’s Journal (she’s a gun-loving, hot blonde, conservative, law-school student) and the California Conservative blog.

Left by Robbie on June 13th, 2006 at 4:59 pm

Hi Robbie:

I have enjoyed reading your blog posts for a few months now. You have an interesting perspective on things, and although I do not agree with everything that you say, I do enjoy looking at things from as many apsects as possible.

I’m interested in knowing what your take on the soldiers that raped and killed the young Iraqi girl and her family is. I know that you are a big supporter of our troops, and also a big advocate of the death penalty, so I just wondered what your stand on this issue was. I thought it could make for an interesting discussion. Anyway, thanks for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.

Left by Vick on August 8th, 2006 at 12:08 pm

Vick,

Thanks for reading and for writing —

As for my opinion on the soldiers in question in that NPR article? Well…at this point those soldiers are alleged to have committed those crimes.

From the way that you phrased your question, it appears that you have already made up your mind that these soldiers are guilty. I can understand why you might think that…the media in have already judged them to be guilty and are portraying them that way.

Until they are proven beyond a reasonable doubt to be guilty, I will give these brave Soldiers the benefit of the doubt and believe them to be innocent.

If they are proven to be guilty, I’ll condemn them then. But not a moment before.

Left by Robbie on August 8th, 2006 at 7:21 pm

Robbie:

Thanks for your response. You’re absolutely right, I phrased my question wrong. In no way have I already made up my mind about their guilt or innocence. I believe in our justice system and the fact that everyone is innocent until proven guilty. It is one of the things that makes our country so great. I’ll admit, it is hard to read about the atrocities done to that innocent family and not get angry, but it is wrong to condemn the soldiers until they are proven beyond reasonable doubt to be guilty. But I do look forward to the truth coming out.

Thanks again for your response.

Left by Vick on August 9th, 2006 at 2:46 pm

One of the accused Soldiers, Pfc. Jesse Spielman, passed a polygraph test after denying shooting or having sex with anyone in the house.

Left by Robbie on August 9th, 2006 at 3:10 pm

Dear Good Person,
I feel very good to you and your views. It is just what we need in America that there is people who know where colured people belong, and woman (in kitchen). And “gay”!!! marriage! Hah! Wee in Germany knew what to do with these type peple. I am so glad Republican Party is in power. We need another strong man and Busch is the Man.
Sincerely and with most good will to you!
Waldemar Roehm, General (Ret.)

Left by Waldemar Roehm (General, Ret.) on October 25th, 2006 at 10:15 pm

Dear Roehm — I have no idea what the hell you are talking about. Further, neither do you.

Oh, and your IP address resolves to Atlanta, GA…not Germany. But nice try there. While you’re pretending to be a German Nazi in attempt to smear me as likewise, you should familiarize yourself with Godwin’s Law.

Left by Robbie on October 25th, 2006 at 10:56 pm

Thank you for this fantastic window into this most vile American stereotype. Over here in Europe (we all travel here, we all visit other countries, regularly) I am often found defending America, I acknowledge that most of the country is sane and against recent US foreign policy. In fact I had forgotten the typical view of America as the most hated country in the World.
Your little pocket of madness is, at least, a prime view of the death throes of the worst American ideals.
The World doesn’t want your justice. The US sold out the UK after WW2, if Nazi Germany had taken Europe, it is likely it would have taken America also… we all stopped an evil machine. The US has no respect for the UN. Iraq is a complete mess because of US foreign policy.
You do realise that China has bought up the American Debt? Financially the dream is over cowboy… the demise of American influence is upon us. In terms of Empires, the American Empire at around 60 years, is really quite pathetic, probably because it was administered in the most greedy fasion, producing: Obesity, War with failed objectives, Murder in High Schools… it’s a sad list.
Once again, thanks!

Left by Jimmal on January 21st, 2007 at 2:36 pm

Silly Jimmal — long after you and I are both dead and gone from this planet, the United States of America will still be the world’s greatest nation. And idiots like you will still hate us for it.

Your country (Amsterdam) on the other hand, will still be nothing more than a cool place to go smoke some dope while on Summer break.

Left by Robbie on January 21st, 2007 at 4:35 pm

You think so Pal? My Grandad is just coming to terms with the fact that, the Sun does now set on the British Empire. You can delude yourself all you like; it’s China now. You messed up, spent all your cash fighting Wars in places you should never have been.
Furthermore, the country of Amsterdam is a good place to be; as is the UK.

Left by Jimmal on January 22nd, 2007 at 3:11 am

America is still the greatest nation on this planet — and the envy or hatred of lesser nations doesn’t negate that fact.

What makes us so great?

I do believe in American exceptionalism — we are the most giving and benevolent nation on this planet, and we have done more to advance the welfare of this planet’s citizens than any other nation ever has.

There is no nation quicker to respond, nor more generous in their response then the United States. And it’s not just our government; our private citizens donate more of their free time and of their money to help the world’s poor and the victims of disaster than the citizens of any other nation.

As President Bush said in last night’s SOTU address:

The greatest strength we have is the heroic kindness, courage, and self-sacrifice of the American people.

No other nation on earth can match the American people in this regard.

Left by Robbie on January 24th, 2007 at 10:44 am

If you give more, it’s because there are more of you with more to give.
Claiming to spread your special brand of democracy, by force, on a global scale- who has this benefited?

The US supports countries in need, although it comes at a high price. A devastated Europe had to wait for the threat of Communism before America gave a second thought. America gave lots of cash, and in return gained Nuclear outposts, substantial trading rights, control of the “World” Bank.

Who wouldn’t praise selfless commitment to worthy causes? America has its fair share of these wonderful people; what exactly have you personally done in a charitable sense (this web site certainly doesn’t mention anything).

Of course Bush wants courage and self sacrifice… he wants you to put a brave face on sending your undereducated, poverty stricken young men to die in whichever part of the world happens to disagree with his brand of domination.

More Americans have died from Obesity on home soil, than any foreign threat. You have many steps to take - one of which is refraining from the consumption of Burgers.

You are, indeed, exceptional. Quite clearly, the ‘Guy in the Sky’ hand picked you and placed you in the Greenest of Lands… you truly are blessed.

Left by Jimmal on January 25th, 2007 at 6:29 am

what exactly have you personally done in a charitable sense

Heinlein wrote: “The noblest fate that a man can endure is to place his own mortal body between his loved home and the war’s desolation.”

John 15:13 — Greater love hath no man than this…that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Ronald Reagan — “Some people wonder all their lives if they’ve made a difference. The Marines don’t have that problem.”

And neither do old Soldiers.

Left by Robbie on January 25th, 2007 at 9:16 am

Heinlein wrote: “The noblest fate that a man can endure is to place his own mortal body between his loved home and the war’s desolation.”

Was Heinlein talking exclusively about American Soldiers, or can this be applied to Soldiers of any nation? Could it apply to the Viet Cong, for example? After all, their “loved home” actually suffered “war’s desolation”. Could it apply to Afghanistan or Iraq?

John 15:13 — Greater love hath no man than this…that a man lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:12 - My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.

Is Biblical text really appropriate?

Ronald Reagan — “Some people wonder all their lives if they’ve made a difference. The Marines don’t have that problem.”

“The old Lie; Dulce et Decorum est
Pro patria mori.”
Wilfred Owen

Your considerable intelect would surely be better used for peaceful aims?

Left by Jimmal on January 27th, 2007 at 4:17 am

Peacememe sent me to say hi. Apparently he thinks we think alike, unlike Peacememe. Could I get anymore likes in the sentence? You should go to the milbloggers conference in DC - May 4th.

Left by Toni on February 1st, 2007 at 2:06 pm

Robbie I love love love your blog “And these days those idiots are plentiful.”

Damn straight.

And I happen to be a very opinionated bitch. It’s nice to find out I’m not the only person on the blogosphere who’s not afraid to admit it.

Cheers!

-beej

Left by beej on February 27th, 2007 at 11:36 pm

Hi Robbie,
I thought I’d say a formal hello here although I guess we’ve already conversed over a couple of issues on your blog.

Nice to read a little about you, I know a few people with similar backgrounds, and I’m sure like them, we will have a few opposing views points here and there.

As long as you understand that British is Best and I’m hardly ever wrong, things should go ’swell’ (do you guys still use that word?).

Left by Jon on May 10th, 2007 at 2:23 am

I must say, reading number 17 of you “100 things about me” did make me laugh:

“I believe in the death penalty and a woman’s right to make her own decisions about her body.”

I must ask how you managed to link those together?

Like saying:

“I agree to all out war with an aim to arrest Sadam Hussein, and the right of any man to eat Chutney on a sunday!”

or

“I am firmly against an apartheid of any kind, and I maintain my right to wear high heels in gym glass”

Left by Jon on May 10th, 2007 at 2:29 am

Robbie - discovered UrbanGrounds by accident - and was instantly hooked.
I’m fed up with all the fanny-kissing to anti-American hate-mongers, be they foreign or home-grown. Nuts to them and the horse (or camel) they rode in on!
Count on it - UrbanGrounds will be regular reading for me from now on.

Left by A Single Voice on September 12th, 2007 at 7:32 am

Thanks. Have a look around and don’t be timid about jumping into the fray.

Left by Robbie on September 12th, 2007 at 8:03 am

I have to say that though I have only just started sorting through your blog, and may find that I disagree with you on quite a few things, I love your writing style.

Plus, I think you would make for a formidable opponent in the ring! LOL! I love the challenge to Ezra. That was fantastic. I also love how you had to clarify what an actual boxing competition is as opposed to a barefisted puch-a-palooza that some people apparently thought it was (the guy from Columbus).

Well, despite our differences, God Bless America… that is one thing I can say we both share in common!

Left by Bernard on November 19th, 2007 at 6:18 pm

Flat out, you are a racist. And it is sad that your hatred of hispanic and african AMERICANS has clouded your thinking. The only person un-american is you. If you can’t understand the the contributions minorities have brought to this country, you are totally clueless. People like you who spit venom like this are a disgrace to armed forces.

Left by James on March 7th, 2008 at 1:59 pm

Nice blog Robbie. Here’s an article about how conservatives are more compassionate than libtards! Complete with “valid data” to support… and they do mention your town, Austin, TX as uber liberal.

Warm regards from a fellow PGR,

Judy

[Editor --- Judy, glad you found me here, and thanks for joining in. Make your self comfortable and welcome, and then stop by frequently, the more people joining in on the conversation the better. And I've long held that next to the men and women of our military (and Veterans), PGR riders are pretty much my favorite people.]

Left by HoosierArmyMom on March 27th, 2008 at 2:41 pm

Just found your site because it was linked to my Iraq blog. I like the site, and it’s glad to see fellow conservative writers in Austin. It can be tough being a conservative in Austin. As I always say, living in Austin is good because it’s only about a 20 minute drive away from Texas.

I know some folks who are planning a conference of sorts for conservative bloggers. It’ll be in Austin around July. Email me and I’ll put you in contact with them.

I’ve got about 40 days and then I’ll be back in the states. Lookin’ forward to some Bert’s BBQ.

Left by James Aalan Bernsen on May 21st, 2008 at 11:27 am

Greetings. My husband and I live rural but have deep ties to Austin. We just bought an apartment right downtown for weekends and UT games. Feeling a little nervous about living around so many Marxists (large part of why we left Austin when the kids were younger). Very interested in the Austin bloggers thing in July, does anyone know more about it?

Also, Jimmal. Europe is very nearly dhimmi territory now. They have erased themselves from their own existence in order to embrace everyone else. And now are an easy target for zealotry of any stripe at all. Who said that if you believe in nothing; you’ll believe in anything? Think John Walker Lindh. Also remember - the Nazis - that great evil?- were the extention of your kind of thinking; not ours.

As to sneering at American giving; take a look at the book Who Really Cares? - a nice analysis of statistics on charity begun by a liberal intending to prove that conservatives are mean spirited cretans. He is not liberal anymore. His own stats proved that the most charitable folk in every possible measurable arena are - married folk who are regular churchgoers. Of which there ARE one or two liberals. The rest are conservatives. Oh, and by the way — charitable folk in Europe are almost impossible to find. European GOVERNMENTS give; the people as individuals do not, as a firm rule. Charity is another victim of socialism.

Left by Terijo Brewton on June 17th, 2008 at 8:21 am