Skinheads versus US Marine.

[[ES] Mindflayer]

Amusing event on my way to WV last weekend.... After passing through the People's Republic of Maryland, I made a quick pit stop at the visitor center in WV. With the camera gear and firearms I had in my car, I decided it was prudent to park a little distance from everyone. Lots of families and people enjoying the view, so no worries.

As I am walking into the center itself, 3 skinny white dudes (race is relevant) come waltzing out and take off their tshirts. Every one of them is covered in white power tattoos and swastikas. Being aware of my surroundings, I know I am the only minority around. Not overly concerned, but good to note to myself.

After done with my business, I walk out and lo! the guys have moved their car and are now parked right next to me. All three are still shirtless, smoking, and giving everyone the evil eye. "Great," I think to myself, "of all the cars to park next to, it had to be mine."

I walk out to my car, and oddly, they don't look at me, don't give me the evil eye. I find it odd, but I'll take a peaceful morning any time. As I am prepared to enter my car, a USMC recruiting convoy rolls up - a HMMWV followed by a truck emblazoned with the USMC logo and artwork.

First guy to get out of the HMMWV was a black Marine, about 6'-something tall, and seemingly that wide at the shoulders. He gives the skinheads a glance, and moves along without a word, without a second look. All three skinheads look at each other and demurely put their shirts back on.

Three skinheads versus one US Marine eyeball. Score, Marine.

[[ES] Rooster]

I shed a tear or two reading this....







Of course, I was also beet red and leaning on my desk laughing hysterically too.

I have served (Army) with human beings of every color imaginable. Blacks, American Indians of seemingly every Nation imaginable, Puerto Ricans, Jamacians, Samoans... you name it. Some were straight up assholes. Some were my brothers in all but blood. I will not tolerate racism. Will. Not.

[[ES] Mindflayer]

Focusing on *-American as we have nowadays misses the whole point of this great nation.

You come here and become a citizen or are born a citizen, you are an American.

People sometimes ask my Japanese-born mother, "What are you?" She answers, depending on her mood, "An American!" or "A human, what are you?" or "A woman. Are you a man?"

[[ES] Rooster]

Too true. I'm personally sick to death of this hyphen American thing. You're either an American or you aren't. No need for qualifiers.