Piracy in the 21st Century, what say you?

Today, I had the pleasure of hearing a flag officer speak and one of the subjects he touched upon was modern day piracy. I don't know about you all, but it's not something I'd ever really focused on as a concern. Sure, I've been educated in acts of terrorism, included piracy, and understand, but may not be personally fully prepared for (of course I don't sail), the risks of sailing the seas, but pirates?

I'll be honest with you, I didn't really follow the latest and greatest news on the piracy case. I only know bits and pieces. Sorry, I've been a tad preoccupied.

At any rate, the whole act seems so archaic or does it? Maybe that's why pirates are still successful. Folks underestimate the potential for pirates to overtake their vessel and/or take their lives and materials. Why is that the case?

I'd interested to hear your thoughts on the subject.

Also, be sure to check out Rear Admiral William Baumgartner's recent speech on the subject as he spoke on "International Piracy on the High Seas" before the Subcommittee on Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation, Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure, U. S. House of Reprsentatives on February 4, 2009.

The Housing Debate

When our gig is up here, we may opt to sell our home. Depending upon where DH receives orders to, we may choose to live in base housing, if it is made availabe to us. This would be a first ever for us. We have always lived on the economy. Part of the reason being that my husband has always been adamant about maintaining distance between professional and work life and felt that living in base housing can possibly muddy up a situation. Another reason is that it's never been mandatory where we were stationed, and we were fortunate enough to be able to rent apartments and then later even purchase a home.

Sure, there are the stories of rumor mills and spouses attempting to pull rank, but it can't be all that bad. Heck, in the civilian world, you can have nosey neighbors and such, we are not immune. Still, I think the issue that concerns many military families is how Admiral Jane Doe's wife might get involved with Fireman Umpty Frats' lawn care regime or how the "Welcoming Committee" might be so welcome at a particular abode. Then there is the matter of how one might not feel at home on base housing because there are allegedly always rank issues to be had. What say those of you who have enjoyed (or not) living in base/privatized housing?

I would venture to think it's all what you make of it. You don't have to get wrapped up in any craziness. Or, is it just completely unavoidable? The adult in me thinks it is, but perhaps I'm being naïve.

Personal life v. Military stuff

Well my personal life, (aka no military stuff whatsoever) has been going wonderfully. Bonus!

On the flip side, this week, as you can also see from my previous post, the military side of the house has been a bear. Today, I had to deal with Tricare. Just got off the phone with them actually (I think I have a full head of gray hair now). While I normally don't have any problems with medical matters, referrals, network providers, what-have-you, today I did.

Sheesh.

This week's comparison. My individual stuff = awesome; Military stuff = less than awesome.

How's that for balance? LOL

Let me go find my sunny disposition now.