Army day

Saturday was drill day for me.  I was planning on getting a haircut Friday afternoon after work so I would be STRAC and setting a good example for the soldiers in the unit.  Pop quiz:  what does STRAC mean and where did this come from?  See answer below.   Anyway, my haircut plans were foiled.  A southbound train struck and killed a horse and rider about 3 p.m. and stopped the train at that point.  It took two frustrating hours to get home on my northbound train and the barber shop was closed so no haircut for me.  I was looking pretty shaggy on Saturday.  The day was long and I was tired by the end of the day.  Traffic going home wasn't bad so the Missus, young son and I took the opportunity to rendezvous at mass at 1730 or 5:30 for you national guard types reading this.  I was in my ACUs and felt a bit conspicuous in my camo and clunky boots and disheveled hair. Near the end of mass I heard a voice next to me in the church aisle saying "thank you" and realized a little boy was standing there holding out a business card.  I must say I was a bit confused as to what was going on.  Did he mistake me for someone else and was trying to return something to me that wasn't mine?  He had a big smile on his face so I took the card and thanked him in return. 

I looked at the card and this is what I saw:

Needless to say I was pretty humbled by this and felt a little ashamed too since I will never be putting my life at risk these days.  I was glad to make his day though and I guess an old guy with gray hair too long will have to do until the real deal shows up.  Today the Missus and I went shopping at Walmart and Home Depot.  I was wearing the t-shirt that I bought at the PX at Ft. Jackson in 2002 when oldest son completed basic training.  It reads "Proud Dad of American Soldier".  Two people said to me while shopping "thank your son for me".  It is heartening to hear that folks are still thinking of servicemen and women.

Pop quiz answer:  STRAC  refers to Strategic Army Command, a formation from the 50s and early 60s known for its sharp appearance and generally squared away nature.  Calling someone 'strac' says that the soldier is sharp and well turned out.  I'm probably the last guy in uniform still using this term.

According to Wikipedia, STRAC  "....is Army slang term for "a well organized, well turned-out soldier, (pressed uniform, polished brass and shined boots)." A proud, competent trooper who can be depended on for good performance in any circumstance.   Gear clean and tight; Weapon clean and ready; Mind clear, organized, and ready for action. S- skilled T- tough R- ready A- around the C- clock. STRAC