XBradTC

This propaganda film, made immediately after the end of the war, talks up the opportunities for African Americans in the Navy. It's a bit deceiving, however. While it shows a DE that was primarily manned by an African American crew, the fact is, the USS Mason and one PC patrol craft were the only ships thus manned. For the most part, African Americans were restricted to serving as mess stewards and stevedores. 

On the other hand, it does rightly showcase sailors recognized for their valor, such as Doris Miller and Leonard Roy Harmon, who, in addition to a posthumous Navy Cross, was the first black sailor to have a Navy ship named after him. 

Mostly, it's just an interesting look at the way things were. 

A private (or specialist, we’re not sure which) bought a used firetruck for $2,200 and couldn’t be happier. He stopped by base while off-duty to show off his new ride.

His NCO was at a complete loss for words when he attempted to park the truck in a regular parking spot as if it were any other automobile.

“I don’t even know what to say,” said the NCO with a laugh. “I don’t even know how to put this in a counseling statement.” Keep in mind not all counseling statements are negative.

via americangg.net

LOL. I've seen troops do some out there stuff, but this is funny as hell.

Click through to watch the video.

With a little bit of luck, I'll be able to  film a review of one odd little ration produced for the Army, specifically the Tailored Operational Training Ration (TOTM).

The TOTM is unique in that it is specifically intended for the National Guard. In years past, when Guard units had their weekend  drill, feeding was sometimes done via sack lunch, or commercial vendor, or by issuing an MRE.  MREs cost the government about $9 each.  That's an expensive lunch. Sack lunches and  commercial vendors were unpopular. As it turns out, using a combination of MRE components, commercial packaging, and a reduced menu allowed the Army to field the TOTM for just over $4 each. 

With Hurricane Harvey heading to Texas right now, it's interesting to note that the Defense Logistics Agency explicitly  authorizes the TOTM as appropriate for humanitarian use. We've seen National Guard  units handing out MREs in the wake of previous natural disasters. It will be interesting to  see if the TOTM makes an appearance.