by hilzoy
Andrew Olmsted, who also posted here as G'Kar, was killed yesterday in Iraq. Andy gave me a post to publish in the event of his death; the last revisions to it were made in July.
Andy was a wonderful person: decent, honorable, generous, principled, courageous, sweet, and very funny. The world has a horrible hole in it that nothing can fill. I'm glad Andy -- generous as always -- wrote something for me to publish now, since I have no words at all. Beyond: Andy, I will miss you.
My thoughts are with his wife, his parents, and his brother and sister.
What follows is Andy's post: a bit here; the rest below the fold. [UPDATE: I'm adding links to Andy's last post at his Rocky Mountain News blogs, from about a week ago, where friends and family are expressing support in comments; to an article from yesterday that I believe is about his death; and to a post he wrote on his reasons for going to Iraq last June.]
[FURTHER UPDATE: Somehow, I thought that given Andy's wish that his death not be politicized, people would refrain from political rants. Most of you have, for which I thank you. Anyone who does not respect his wishes, in this thread, will have his or her comment deleted. I am disemvowelling the one that has already appeared. END FURTHER UPDATE.]
***
"I am leaving this message for you because it appears I must leave sooner than I intended. I would have preferred to say this in person, but since I cannot, let me say it here."
G'Kar, Babylon 5
"Only the dead have seen the end of war."
Plato*
This is an entry I would have preferred not to have published, but there are limits to what we can control in life, and apparently I have passed one of those limits. And so, like G'Kar, I must say here what I would much prefer to say in person. I want to thank hilzoy for putting it up for me. It's not easy asking anyone to do something for you in the event of your death, and it is a testament to her quality that she didn't hesitate to accept the charge. As with many bloggers, I have a disgustingly large ego, and so I just couldn't bear the thought of not being able to have the last word if the need arose. Perhaps I take that further than most, I don't know. I hope so. It's frightening to think there are many people as neurotic as I am in the world. In any case, since I won't get another chance to say what I think, I wanted to take advantage of this opportunity. Such as it is.
"When some people die, it's time to be sad. But when other people die, like really evil people, or the Irish, it's time to celebrate."
Jimmy Bender, "Greg the Bunny"
"And maybe now it's your turn
To die kicking some ass."
Freedom Isn't Free, Team America
What I don't want this to be is a chance for me, or anyone else, to be maudlin. I'm dead. That sucks, at least for me and my family and friends. But all the tears in the world aren't going to bring me back, so I would prefer that people remember the good things about me rather than mourning my loss. (If it turns out a specific number of tears will, in fact, bring me back to life, then by all means, break out the onions.) I had a pretty good life, as I noted above. Sure, all things being equal I would have preferred to have more time, but I have no business complaining with all the good fortune I've enjoyed in my life. So if you're up for that, put on a little 80s music (preferably vintage 1980-1984), grab a Coke and have a drink with me. If you have it, throw 'Freedom Isn't Free' from the Team America soundtrack in; if you can't laugh at that song, I think you need to lighten up a little. I'm dead, but if you're reading this, you're not, so take a moment to enjoy that happy fact.
[continued below the fold]
"Our thoughts form the universe. They always matter."
Citizen G'Kar, Babylon 5
Believe it or not, one of the things I will miss most is not being able to blog any longer. The ability to put my thoughts on (virtual) paper and put them where people can read and respond to them has been marvelous, even if most people who have read my writings haven't agreed with them. If there is any hope for the long term success of democracy, it will be if people agree to listen to and try to understand their political opponents rather than simply seeking to crush them. While the blogosphere has its share of partisans, there are some awfully smart people making excellent arguments out there as well, and I know I have learned quite a bit since I began blogging. I flatter myself I may have made a good argument or two as well; if I didn't, please don't tell me. It has been a great five-plus years. I got to meet a lot of people who are way smarter than me, including such luminaries as Virginia Postrel and her husband Stephen (speaking strictly from a 'improving the species' perspective, it's tragic those two don't have kids, because they're both scary smart.), the estimable hilzoy and Sebastian of Obsidian Wings, Jeff Goldstein and Stephen Green, the men who consistently frustrated me with their mix of wit and wisdom I could never match, and I've no doubt left out a number of people to whom I apologize. Bottom line: if I got the chance to meet you through blogging, I enjoyed it. I'm only sorry I couldn't meet more of you. In particular I'd like to thank Jim Henley, who while we've never met has been a true comrade, whose words have taught me and whose support has been of great personal value to me. I would very much have enjoyed meeting Jim.
Blogging put me in touch with an inordinate number of smart people, an exhilarating if humbling experience. When I was young, I was smart, but the older I got, the more I realized just how dumb I was in comparison to truly smart people. But, to my credit, I think, I was at least smart enough to pay attention to the people with real brains and even occasionally learn something from them. It has been joy and a pleasure having the opportunity to do this.
"It's not fair."
"No. It's not. Death never is."
Captain John Sheridan and Dr. Stephen Franklin, Babylon 5
"They didn't even dig him a decent grave."
"Well, it's not how you're buried. It's how you're remembered."
Cimarron and Wil Andersen, The Cowboys
I suppose I should speak to the circumstances of my death. It would be nice to believe that I died leading men in battle, preferably saving their lives at the cost of my own. More likely I was caught by a marksman or an IED. But if there is an afterlife, I'm telling anyone who asks that I went down surrounded by hundreds of insurgents defending a village composed solely of innocent women and children. It'll be our little secret, ok?
I do ask (not that I'm in a position to enforce this) that no one try to use my death to further their political purposes. I went to Iraq and did what I did for my reasons, not yours. My life isn't a chit to be used to bludgeon people to silence on either side. If you think the U.S. should stay in Iraq, don't drag me into it by claiming that somehow my death demands us staying in Iraq. If you think the U.S. ought to get out tomorrow, don't cite my name as an example of someone's life who was wasted by our mission in Iraq. I have my own opinions about what we should do about Iraq, but since I'm not around to expound on them I'd prefer others not try and use me as some kind of moral capital to support a position I probably didn't support. Further, this is tough enough on my family without their having to see my picture being used in some rally or my name being cited for some political purpose. You can fight political battles without hurting my family, and I'd prefer that you did so.
On a similar note, while you're free to think whatever you like about my life and death, if you think I wasted my life, I'll tell you you're wrong. We're all going to die of something. I died doing a job I loved. When your time comes, I hope you are as fortunate as I was.
"What an idiot! What a loser!"
Chaz Reingold, Wedding Crashers
"Oh and I don't want to die for you, but if dying's asked of me;
I'll bear that cross with honor, 'cause freedom don't come free."
American Soldier, Toby Keith
Those who know me through my writings on the Internet over the past five-plus years probably have wondered at times about my chosen profession. While I am not a Libertarian, I certainly hold strongly individualistic beliefs. Yet I have spent my life in a profession that is not generally known for rugged individualism. Worse, I volunteered to return to active duty knowing that the choice would almost certainly lead me to Iraq. The simple explanation might be that I was simply stupid, and certainly I make no bones about having done some dumb things in my life, but I don't think this can be chalked up to stupidity. Maybe I was inconsistent in my beliefs; there are few people who adhere religiously to the doctrines of their chosen philosophy, whatever that may be. But I don't think that was the case in this instance either.
As passionate as I am about personal freedom, I don't buy the claims of anarchists that humanity would be just fine without any government at all. There are too many people in the world who believe that they know best how people should live their lives, and many of them are more than willing to use force to impose those beliefs on others. A world without government simply wouldn't last very long; as soon as it was established, strongmen would immediately spring up to establish their fiefdoms. So there is a need for government to protect the people's rights. And one of the fundamental tools to do that is an army that can prevent outside agencies from imposing their rules on a society. A lot of people will protest that argument by noting that the people we are fighting in Iraq are unlikely to threaten the rights of the average American. That's certainly true; while our enemies would certainly like to wreak great levels of havoc on our society, the fact is they're not likely to succeed. But that doesn't mean there isn't still a need for an army (setting aside debates regarding whether ours is the right size at the moment). Americans are fortunate that we don't have to worry too much about people coming to try and overthrow us, but part of the reason we don't have to worry about that is because we have an army that is stopping anyone who would try.
Soldiers cannot have the option of opting out of missions because they don't agree with them: that violates the social contract. The duly-elected American government decided to go to war in Iraq. (Even if you maintain President Bush was not properly elected, Congress voted for war as well.) As a soldier, I have a duty to obey the orders of the President of the United States as long as they are Constitutional. I can no more opt out of missions I disagree with than I can ignore laws I think are improper. I do not consider it a violation of my individual rights to have gone to Iraq on orders because I raised my right hand and volunteered to join the army. Whether or not this mission was a good one, my participation in it was an affirmation of something I consider quite necessary to society. So if nothing else, I gave my life for a pretty important principle; I can (if you'll pardon the pun) live with that.
"It's all so brief, isn't it? A typical human lifespan is almost a hundred years. But it's barely a second compared to what's out there. It wouldn't be so bad if life didn't take so long to figure out. Seems you just start to get it right, and then...it's over."
Dr. Stephen Franklin, Babylon 5
I wish I could say I'd at least started to get it right. Although, in my defense, I think I batted a solid .250 or so. Not a superstar, but at least able to play in the big leagues. I'm afraid I can't really offer any deep secrets or wisdom. I lived my life better than some, worse than others, and I like to think that the world was a little better off for my having been here. Not very much, but then, few of us are destined to make more than a tiny dent in history's Green Monster. I would be lying if I didn't admit I would have liked to have done more, but it's a bit too late for that now, eh? The bottom line, for me, is that I think I can look back at my life and at least see a few areas where I may have made a tiny difference, and massive ego aside, that's probably not too bad.
"The flame also reminds us that life is precious. As each flame is unique; when it goes out, it's gone forever. There will never be another quite like it."
Ambassador Delenn, Babylon 5
I write this in part, admittedly, because I would like to think that there's at least a little something out there to remember me by. Granted, this site will eventually vanish, being ephemeral in a very real sense of the word, but at least for a time it can serve as a tiny record of my contributions to the world. But on a larger scale, for those who knew me well enough to be saddened by my death, especially for those who haven't known anyone else lost to this war, perhaps my death can serve as a small reminder of the costs of war. Regardless of the merits of this war, or of any war, I think that many of us in America have forgotten that war means death and suffering in wholesale lots. A decision that for most of us in America was academic, whether or not to go to war in Iraq, had very real consequences for hundreds of thousands of people. Yet I was as guilty as anyone of minimizing those very real consequences in lieu of a cold discussion of theoretical merits of war and peace. Now I'm facing some very real consequences of that decision; who says life doesn't have a sense of humor?
But for those who knew me and feel this pain, I think it's a good thing to realize that this pain has been felt by thousands and thousands (probably millions, actually) of other people all over the world. That is part of the cost of war, any war, no matter how justified. If everyone who feels this pain keeps that in mind the next time we have to decide whether or not war is a good idea, perhaps it will help us to make a more informed decision. Because it is pretty clear that the average American would not have supported the Iraq War had they known the costs going in. I am far too cynical to believe that any future debate over war will be any less vitriolic or emotional, but perhaps a few more people will realize just what those costs can be the next time.
This may be a contradiction of my above call to keep politics out of my death, but I hope not. Sometimes going to war is the right idea. I think we've drawn that line too far in the direction of war rather than peace, but I'm a soldier and I know that sometimes you have to fight if you're to hold onto what you hold dear. But in making that decision, I believe we understate the costs of war; when we make the decision to fight, we make the decision to kill, and that means lives and families destroyed. Mine now falls into that category; the next time the question of war or peace comes up, if you knew me at least you can understand a bit more just what it is you're deciding to do, and whether or not those costs are worth it.
"This is true love. You think this happens every day?"
Westley, The Princess Bride
"Good night, my love, the brightest star in my sky."
John Sheridan, Babylon 5
This is the hardest part. While I certainly have no desire to die, at this point I no longer have any worries. That is not true of the woman who made my life something to enjoy rather than something merely to survive. She put up with all of my faults, and they are myriad, she endured separations again and again...I cannot imagine being more fortunate in love than I have been with Amanda. Now she has to go on without me, and while a cynic might observe she's better off, I know that this is a terrible burden I have placed on her, and I would give almost anything if she would not have to bear it. It seems that is not an option. I cannot imagine anything more painful than that, and if there is an afterlife, this is a pain I'll bear forever.
I wasn't the greatest husband. I could have done so much more, a realization that, as it so often does, comes too late to matter. But I cherished every day I was married to Amanda. When everything else in my life seemed dark, she was always there to light the darkness. It is difficult to imagine my life being worth living without her having been in it. I hope and pray that she goes on without me and enjoys her life as much as she deserves. I can think of no one more deserving of happiness than her.
"I will see you again, in the place where no shadows fall."
Ambassador Delenn, Babylon 5
I don't know if there is an afterlife; I tend to doubt it, to be perfectly honest. But if there is any way possible, Amanda, then I will live up to Delenn's words, somehow, some way. I love you.
***
[UPDATE, by hilzoy: this thread has well over a thousand comments, and I'm beginning to wonder whether the software can handle it. I've opened another thread here; please write your comments there, rather than here. Thanks.]
Similarly, again a reminder that discussion of the war is not what this thread is about; political argument and expression of any stripe is inappropriate. Save it for somewhere else; there's no shortage of the rest of the world and space and time out there for people to put their politics.
That goes for antiwar sentiment as much as pro-Iraq war sentiment: neither is appropriate in this thread.
Anyone who can't understand that it's their ego talking when they feel a need to lecture others on politics at a time like this needs to do a little self-examination.
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 12:56 PM
"I'm dead, but if you're reading this, you're not, so take a moment to enjoy that happy fact."
That is something we should never forgot. That is an amazing thing to quote.
RIP.
Posted by: Jeff | January 05, 2008 at 12:57 PM
Dman 2:08am
To understand the message, you would need to understand the man, fanboy and all.
Posted by: David | January 05, 2008 at 12:58 PM
I have no words to express my sorrow. I am truly sorry that tremendous people like this are taken away from us all too soon.
Posted by: Derek | January 05, 2008 at 12:58 PM
My deepest condolences to Major Olmsted's family and all of his friends here at OW.
Posted by: Jennyjinx | January 05, 2008 at 01:03 PM
What an amazing man, to have left his words for those who might suffer his loss. I didn't know him and I've only occasionally read his blog, but Maj. Olmsted obviously lived an honorable and generous life. How many of us can say the same?
The outpouring of love and respect for him here and all over the blogosphere is an incredible testament to what is good in the world. He deserves it, and I bet it would satisfy even his "disgustingly large ego."
It's hard to know what to do in times like this, but any act of goodness, kindness and generosity undertaken in his honor will help to fill the void and make his memory a living blessing.
My sincere condolences to the Olmsted family, and my deep gratitude to all those who serve.
Posted by: Anne Lieberman | January 05, 2008 at 01:03 PM
Well it's a shame he had to use so much cloak and dagger to keep his death from being political, but the letter meant something to him, and it means something to you people, so this tokes for you dude. Sucks your dead, hope your family recovers,
and as George Carlin might say, May The Great Electron greet you positively.
Posted by: J.C.L. | January 05, 2008 at 01:12 PM
I also have never read his blog until today, i am truly sorry for you loss I will pray for you
Posted by: Bill | January 05, 2008 at 01:14 PM
The outpouring of emotions and sentiments astonishes me. It's just sad that it takes the death of this wonderful man for us to truly appreciate his life in full. If only he could have known what an effect his last words have made.
Also, there is a post up there that seems innocent but is truly revolting in its inhumanity. Gary, I'd point your attention to a recent post at 12:28. The message is Welcome home, and the poster is calling themselves 'Satan'. I'm truly disgusted by this. It is an insult to Major Olmsted's memory to imply such things about him.
Posted by: Nix | January 05, 2008 at 01:14 PM
[comment deleted by The Management.]
Posted by: [name deleted by The Management.] | January 05, 2008 at 01:15 PM
I'm a 36 yr old man....sitting at my desk...crying like a child.
Posted by: Davide | January 05, 2008 at 01:16 PM
I did not know Maj. Olmsted, but I feel honoured to have gotten to read his final blog.
Reading the comments here, I have to say...I hope that when I pass, I will have touched just a fraction of the lives that Maj. Andy Olmsted did.
My deepest condolences to his family, and his friends.
Posted by: EternalFlame | January 05, 2008 at 01:16 PM
At times like this, I recall a day in Vancouver, BC, several years back, prior to the wars. It was the Canadian Memorial day, although if you don't know what the poppy in everyone's lapel means, it's easy to miss, happen be that you are out of range of the pipes.
The Cenotaph for Vancouver, commemorating all of Vancouver's war dead in various actions since WWI, is on the edge of skid road and within a couple blocks of the most trafficked tourist area, Gastown.
It happened that there were ships in port - US and Russian, plus a lot of Canadian soldiers on leave. There was also some sort of Veteran's convention, I believe, regarding WWII, so there were representatives from Veteran's associations from all over the world, each wearing their caps or colors. And then the various odds and sods from various embassies and such, dropping in at the convention to show the various flags.
Somehow the word spread with the pipes - this was also pre flash-mob - and the most amazing collection of uniforms and headgear surrounded the cenotaph as the piper piped.
And I am told - for it was on the news the next day, as one of those amazing things that somehow just happened - that this motley collection of Canadian, American, Russian and various other stray vets and serving soldiers and sailors arranged themselves in proper order, uncovered, and properly executed "the missing man."
When a Canadian news anchor gets choked up - it's a significant moment; I cite it so that you will understand, remember and hold to these traditions and virtues, for they remind us of sacrifices made and the hope that we may avoid worse yet.
So go dust off your cap, those of you who have served, and remember, as you shift ranks to make room for the shades to your left that it is the survivor's duty to tell the story of those who fell so that no mother's son (or daughter) need fall in vain.
Every conflict has it's lessons. It's a truism that there is no war ever that is truly just or truly unavoidable. It's probable, though, that those faced with the decision to go to war are a decade late and a dollar short in that regard; imperfect men as well, with less wisdom that we would like oftimes. But regardless of that, it's surely true that no one in uniform or in ranks is in a position to do anything much about it other than to suck it up and soldier.
Oh, and speaking of that Armistice Day, at the Cenotaph, many years ago; those civilians - vets not in uniform or cover and those who had never served alike - stood back, behind the horseshoe of vets facing the cenotaph, and stood in quiet witness as the colors were dipped in memory of the fallen. They too saluted, as is proper, with a hand over still-beating hearts in tribute to those who's pulse has stilled.
You see, that is the point where conflict and the politics cease to matter, and where the honorable soldiers (and those we so credit though they perhaps were not "plaster saints") of all sides and eras join in one great commonality of death.
Having sent them out to do their duty, it is ours to ensure that their efforts are not forgotten, nor in vain.
We may honestly argue - at some other time - as to what a proper memorial and honors should be; peace or further war, victory or armistice - but we must do it in due homage to the blood that has been shed, and not lightly or for personal or unseemly political advantage.
That would be an insult and a dishonor, and may the blood of the fallen and the pain of the lamed cry out and curse those who would use them so.
Posted by: Bob King | January 05, 2008 at 01:18 PM
Not much to add, other than my condolences to his family and friends. His voice will be missed.
Posted by: JerryN | January 05, 2008 at 01:18 PM
What inspiring and heartwrenching words to read. As a Soldier and fellow milblogger, my heart goes out to Andy's family. I realize it may be too early, but if any of Andy's friends or family would like to be interviewed so that Andy can be memorialized on They Have Names (www.theyhavenames.com), please contact me.
Hilzoy, you have my permission to release my email address.
I won't forget this:
"while you're free to think whatever you like about my life and death, if you think I wasted my life, I'll tell you you're wrong. We're all going to die of something. I died doing a job I loved. When your time comes, I hope you are as fortunate as I was."
Posted by: 1SG CJ Grisham | January 05, 2008 at 01:19 PM
Few words I've read have touched me so much. What a decent, honest, and courageous man. My deepest sympathies to his family, friends, fellow servicemen, and buddies on the blog. Andrew's voice will be sorely missed.
Posted by: tobie | January 05, 2008 at 01:20 PM
[Comment deleted, and commenter banned, by The Management.]
Posted by: Weeper | January 05, 2008 at 01:21 PM
"Now cracks a noble heart"
Posted by: Bonnie | January 05, 2008 at 01:26 PM
Don't respond. The 01:21 PM will be deleted soon.
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 01:27 PM
It feels like an intrusion for me to say this, since I didn't know Andy Olmsted or his friends or family, but I have to say it. In death, this post, reminds people of the true cost of war (whatever the reason, whatever the justification), and in my mind that makes him a hero.
My thoughts are with his friends and family, and but for chance I may end up feeling their pain as well. In leui of thanking Andy, I want to also extend to his family my thanks for his and their service to our country.
Posted by: Rachel | January 05, 2008 at 01:27 PM
I am so sorry you had to leave a life you loved... I mourn the loss of your beautiful thoughts. A soldier to the end and an intellectual, humble and illuminating even in death. I cry for the loss of a friend I never knew.
Posted by: Brian Laney | January 05, 2008 at 01:27 PM
Gary & hil... and while you're at it, the 1:15 too.
Posted by: other | January 05, 2008 at 01:32 PM
The official Department of Defense announcement:
I know nothing about Captain Casey, but I shouldn't neglect to say that his loss is, of course, equally devastating to his family and friends and loved ones, and they don't even have the support of a huge number of people in the blogosphere.It's true that this is so of every other of the many deaths on this planet yesterday, the day before, today, and tomorrow, but I salute and send my best wishes and condolences and all those other damn useless words to Captain Casey's family of friends, as well, and invite anyone who might know more of him to tell us more of him here. I'm sure one of the front page bloggers would be utterly happy to make any substantial remembrance of Captain Casey a front page post.
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 01:37 PM
My husband worked with Maj Olmsted at the KMTB in Iraq. On behalf of the brothers left behind, I want to express our deepest sympathies to the family. You are in our prayers.
Cynthia Grant
Posted by: Cynthia Grant | January 05, 2008 at 01:38 PM
Andy,
I didn't know you, and while I have some minor disagreement with your outlook on your profession, it was well reasoned and I respect your intelligent decision.
Thank you for your sacrifice. I'm unhappy that you were required to make it, but I am honored by the spirit it was made in.
Posted by: Cui Bono.us | January 05, 2008 at 01:38 PM
R.I.P.
Posted by: Gabriel Gall | January 05, 2008 at 01:40 PM
I understand the politicizers--they're wrong but it's sometimes a well-intentioned breach of etiquette and I've been guilty myself at other times. I don't get the haters. But they don't matter. Anyone who had even a passing knowledge of Andrew (the category I'm in) could see the essential decency, the sense of duty, the compassion, and the courage of the man, even if one didn't necessarily agree with him on many or most political issues.
Posted by: Donald Johnson | January 05, 2008 at 01:40 PM
IM SOOO SAD....MY CONDOLENCE GOES OUT TO THE DEAD MANS FAMILY.....
IM SO SRY...I HAVE NEVA BEEN ON THIS BLOG AND THIS S THE FIRST TIME....AND THERE IS AN AFTERLIFE......
THERE WAS A COMMENT THAT I READ THAT MADE ME THINK..YOU CAN ONLY TELL PEOPLE WHAT YOU THINK OF THEM WHEN THERE ALIVE AND ITS BETTER FOR US TO DO IT WHEN THERE ALIVE THAN PONDER AND FEEL GUILTY FOR AN ETERNITY ON WHY YOU DIDI NOT TELL OW GRATEFUL AND HOW MUCH THEY MEANT TO YOU....
IM GREATLY MOVED BY THE WRITER OF THIS LAST LETTER..IT SHOWES HE CARED ABOUT HIS READERS AND HIS FAMILY AND HE NEW OF HIS IMPENDING SUDDEN DEATH...AND THUS HE LEFT THE READERS AND HIS WIFE A LETTER......
WHEN I STARTED READING THIS I REALLY DINT THINK MUCH OF IT BUT BY THE TIME I HAD REACHED THE END I FELT LIKE A PART OF ME HAD GOT LOST I STILL FEEL LIKE I WOULD WANT TO TURN THE CLOCK BACK AND TELL THIS HUMAN ABOUT HI..DEATH
BUT IN THE WORDS OF BENAZIR BHUTTO
YOU CANNOT DIE BEFORE YOURE TIME
THE REASON WHICH LEADS ME TO ARITE SUCH A BIG COMMENT IS I WAT T SAY EVERYTHING I CAN BEFORE I LEAVE THIS PAGE.. TO GIVE MY OPINION AND WHENT OUT MY HOLLOWNESS...
I ADMIRE THIS WRITERS CYNICAL WAY OF TALKING ABOUT HIS DEATH...AND ALSO HOW HE WANTS EVERYBODY TO COME TO THE UNDERSTANDING THAT HE DOSENT WANT ANYBODY TO MOURN FOR HIM..
MY RESPECTS GO OUT TO A SOLDIER AND AN EXCEPTIONALLY GOOD WRITER...
Posted by: akino | January 05, 2008 at 01:42 PM
From Italy: Grazie per averci difeso. Non ti dimenticheremo!
Posted by: Frank | January 05, 2008 at 01:42 PM
May the God of all understanding and love, receive into His kingdom the soul of Andrew and there to hold it until his family and friends in their time join him. May his work here on earth benefit those who seek the truth about issues such as war and peace, and those who send them into harms way. May the love of God bring some measure of peace and comfort to all those who mourn. St. Thomas Aquinas, Doctor of the Church wrote that the ultimate purpose of mankind was to return to whence we came: to God. Andrew has fulfilled that purpose as we all shall.
Posted by: Archbishop Bruce J. Simpson, OSJB | January 05, 2008 at 01:43 PM
"Gary & hil... and while you're at it, the 1:15 too."
Hilzoy has gone to lunch with friends, a good thing, so there will likely be a couple of hours delay in deletion -- I'm not sure where the few other front-pagers are, just now, though one may pop up shortly to help out -- but I'm sure they're grieving -- but it'll get taken care of before night falls.
As a point of trivia, the PBS Newshour ends its broadcast each night with lists of the names of those on the latest DoD release, and their picture. This should mean that Andrew and Captain Casey will be on Monday night's broadcast. (I missed Friday's broadcast, so I can't say for sure, but it seems unlikely that they would have been included that quickly, though actually I suppose it's possible; I apologize that I don't know; a quick scan of the Newshour site doesn't reveal an obvious link to the lists, which are DoD lists, after all.)
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 01:45 PM
Andrew, sweet Andrew - gone from our sight.
You speak such deep truth, like the darkness of night.
Fallen at war's hand, your heart's song rings true.
Gone your flesh, your spirit to renew.
Forgotten you are not, and never will be...
Yours is the truth that set you free.
Posted by: LJeffcoat | January 05, 2008 at 01:46 PM
Hooya, Sir. God bless you for all you have done and may you rest in peace. My deepest condolences go out to your family and loved ones.
Posted by: Tyler | January 05, 2008 at 01:54 PM
I read his blog even before he joined OW. Clearly well to my right along the American political spectrum and on the opposite side of major issues, yet I was instantly glad to have found him because he obviously possessed some rare and wonderful qualities: humility, a genuine desire to know the truth, a willingness to grant the same benefit of the doubt to the other side that he granted his own, a great readiness to reflect and reconsider his own views. And then he voluntarily went off to work for a really dangerous cause that he believed in.
That was a guy who represented a lot of the best of what America has to offer. It's very, very sad that he's gone.
Posted by: The Navigator | January 05, 2008 at 01:55 PM
Hilzoy and Gary, I know there will be a delay in deletion of offensive comments, but I want to call your attention to the 12:28 PM post from today. It looks innocent enough, but the poster calls himself 'Satan' and welcomes the Major home.
Thank you for your efforts to keep this thread respectful.
Posted by: Nix | January 05, 2008 at 01:55 PM
Very touching words. My deepest condolences to his family, and his friends. I thank him for the sacrifice he and many others have made. God bless you all.
Posted by: Rick | January 05, 2008 at 01:57 PM
Even those of us who vehemently but honorably oppose the war in Iraq never misinterpret the sacrifice that Lincoln called "the last full measure of devotion" of the people on the ground. They're the ones doing the hard work - the horrible heavy-lifting of war.
The world is a little poorer today than it was yesterday and I am terribly sad about that. I didn't know Andrew J. Olmsted but I am going to miss him just the same. We all are.
Posted by: Jeff | January 05, 2008 at 01:59 PM
Incidentally, Jim Henley, Andy, and I were all mutual friends and part of that same blogging generation. We had three-way e-mails now and again. This went on for years.
I mean, it's 2008; that's almost six years of that.
I remember taking pride in Andy's promotion to Major when I noted to Jim that referring to "Captain Olmsted" was no longer correct. Andy was modest and quiet as ever, of course. Damn people like that.
Jim and Andy self-identif[ied/y] as libertarians, which I don't, although we tended to agree overall more than we disagreed, much as we all disagree[d] about a variety of politics that don't matter here. (One small thing non-liberartians, like me, can do to remember Andrew is think of him every time you see someone dismiss all libertarians as thoughtless and wrong, and maybe speak up if you see someone dismiss all libertarians that way; Andy and I had political disagreements, but I never had other than respect for his thoughtful views); anyway, Jim wrote this, and a few other posts near it, about our friend Andy.
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 02:05 PM
When soldiers die, the world is less. Someday the rest of this country will understand how valuable a willing soldier is. When there is a genuine threat to your way of life, the well being if your family and the lives of the people on your street, less than 1% of our population will stand in harms way to defend you. How can that sacrifice truly be measured.
When my unit came home, there were empty seats on that plane. The families were there however, to greet us home, to thank us for trying to take care of our fallen. The pain and heartbreak on their faces belied their words. We all still feel that we failed them.
I hope for strength in his wife and family.
Rest in Peace, Brother.
Posted by: SgtPasto | January 05, 2008 at 02:06 PM
What is this salty wet on my face......
Vaya Con Dios, G'Kar
Posted by: Seven of Nine | January 05, 2008 at 02:08 PM
Having never read this blog before and not really sure anymore how I got here but I appreciate all this man has offered, not only for this blog but the world. He died an honorable death, doing what he wanted, I can only hope that his family will endeavor to live a happy and fruitful life in his honor. It has saddened me to no end to see the posts here. However this saddenss is in honor for a fallen hereo and all he touched.
I will stop now as I am crying too hard for all who have lost and happy for all who have benefited from this mans existance.
I am proud to be touched by this.
Posted by: Dan'o | January 05, 2008 at 02:11 PM
"but I want to call your attention to the 12:28 PM post from today."
Noted, sigh.
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 02:11 PM
Thank you, Andy. For everything.
Posted by: Philly | January 05, 2008 at 02:12 PM
I was moved by the writing until I got to the comment claiming to be enraged because his life was thrown away. How insensitive and insulting to a hero! How dare you say his life was thrown away when he was doing what he wanted to do!? He plainly states he volunteered knowing the likely outcome. Regardless of one's politics, it's absolute disrespect to suggest any of these fine men and women have thrown their lives away when doing what they chose to do.
Posted by: Leo Bricker | January 05, 2008 at 02:14 PM
I'm so sad that he died. I didn't get to know this blog until this entry and I am sorry that is the case. I hope that wherever he is now is a place of eternal joy.
Posted by: squeaky | January 05, 2008 at 02:15 PM
Oh God I had missed this post at his Rocky Mountain News blog:
After the remembrances and a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace, the ceremony closed with the salute to the deceased. In small groups, all of us came up to the display commemorating the fallen, took a moment to gaze down at the dog tags, the helmet, the empty boots, and then we came to attention and saluted our fallen comrade. There was no time period allotted; one could stay as long or as short a time as one wished. I had never met the soldier, but I found it very difficult to keep my eyes clear as I saluted a good man who had so much more to offer the world.
A scene that was undoubtedly repeated a couple of days ago except with two battlefield crosses…
Posted by: OCSteve | January 05, 2008 at 02:17 PM
Stand easy soldier
RIP
You did make a difference!
Posted by: Greig | January 05, 2008 at 02:17 PM
[Comment deleted by The Management.]
Posted by: [Name deleted by The Management.] | January 05, 2008 at 02:20 PM
Young officer: Sir!.... Will there be a ceremony when we get in?.... I mean a reception?
Adm James T. Kirk: A heroes welcome? Is that what you want, Son? Well God knows there should be. This time we paid for the party with our dearest blood.
My heart aches at the news of Major Olmsted's passing... May the wind be at his back.
The Kobyashi Maru has set sail for the promised land.. All units acknowledge.
My prayers to his family, and his commrads.
Posted by: Mark D | January 05, 2008 at 02:21 PM
I have read only fragments of his work. I never knew him but by pieces. But I'm still sitting here crying.
There may be no afterlife, but as long as his mark on the world remains, there is something of him still. Reading these comments, I realize that he will linger for a very long time.
He was loved. What more can I say? He was loved.
Posted by: I Found Squirrels | January 05, 2008 at 02:21 PM
Please forward our sincere condolences to this wonderful man's family. It seems he died as he lived - standing tall.
Posted by: motionview | January 05, 2008 at 02:21 PM
I come from the Daily Kos side of the blogosphere; my sister, if she should happen by here (and she might), would be coming from the BlackFive/Ace of Spades side. And yet, I can say without fear of contradiction that our sentiments about Major Olmsted (and Captain Casey) are substantially identical.
A dear friend of mine, Wes Ives, who was himself struck down suddenly at far too young an age, once called War "a mad monster, in whose service we must not become mad" — or monsters — ourselves. Aside from emerging alive, that is the great challenge faced by all who find themselves, by chance or by choice, in its way; and that is the challenge at which Andy Olmsted has succeeded beyond all measure.
War may have conquered his body, but it did not touch his soul; it took his human life, but did not so much as dent his humanity.
Posted by: Ray Radlein | January 05, 2008 at 02:22 PM
Steve, I was just updating on Andy's Rocky Mountain blog, myself, and saw this:
Best wishes for the speediest and best possible recovery of SFC Will Beaver. Andy loved his troops, and I know he'd want that more than anything: that the living should go on.Other soldiers who have served with Andy, including his superiors, have testified there as well.
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 02:25 PM
I never met this man, but I can tell he was honorable. To his wife and family, I wish to thank you for your sacrifice. With out men like this, our country would not be as great as it is.
Good bye soldier. Thank you.
Posted by: Jim | January 05, 2008 at 02:26 PM
Requiescat in pace.
Posted by: Keir | January 05, 2008 at 02:31 PM
Gary... add the 2:20 to your list.
Posted by: other | January 05, 2008 at 02:31 PM
Came here from a link on Amazon, not knowing what I'd find. I'm sitting here stunned by a human being I'd never met but would've liked to.
Words have power--no greater evidence of that than what Andrew Olmsted wrote.
Peace to you Andy, and peace to those who knew and loved you.
Posted by: shanshad | January 05, 2008 at 02:31 PM
I've just stumbled across this blog, and I have never had the chance to converse with Andrew in any manner whatsoever. Regardless, his noble qualities come through clearly in his writing and I find myself somehow touched and humbled. Rest in peace, Andrew Olmsted.
- Alvin, Singapore
Posted by: Alvin Lim | January 05, 2008 at 02:33 PM
Gary-
I won't translate the text of "kill us troops" 2:20pm, but by the user name you can guess it is not polite. Please remove when able. Thanks.
Posted by: David | January 05, 2008 at 02:33 PM
I'd like to add my condolences to his family and those who knew him well. Having never met Andy, I find myself terribly sad.
Posted by: Adam | January 05, 2008 at 02:36 PM
I don't know this man. I don't know his blog. I never read any of his posts save for the post of his death, only because of Digg. But I can tell, through the outpouring of love and condolences on his blog, that he was well respected, adored and loved. I hope some big things come out of his story, his life. From the way he wrote his final post, he really knew who he was, what he was doing, and how he wanted to live- it is something not all of us are good at doing and take our lives for granted.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his immediate family, his extended family, and his blogger family. I hope as many of you as possible are able to attend any funeral services the family has, and are able to show your love for him to his family and friends.
I can only hope to live a life as wonderful as his, as beloved and adored as his. But I do know this: that I am alive today, knowing that he sacrificed his life for me and our awesome country, so that I could do something so simple today as to watch the NFL Playoffs. I hope that you all dedicate all your living days to those who died for you and your country.
Posted by: Rob | January 05, 2008 at 02:40 PM
For the third time since last night, I return... read the responses... wipe fresh tears from my eyes.
Again and again, I am sorry - for you Andy, for your family.
It will be measurably harder to slog on without your voice to inspire when the work gets tiring and the opposition vituperrious. But we will - and you'll always be a part of that.
Quam bene vivas refert, non quam diu
Thank you Hilzoy, for sharing Andy's voice and for making this a place of civil discourse.
Posted by: Barrett Wolf | January 05, 2008 at 02:41 PM
I had never heard of Andy before today, nor read his blog, but this truly brought me to tears. What an enlightened, funny, and loving person we have lost. But Andy tells us not to cry, but to remember his life with fondness. And I sure as hell would drink a coke with him. My deepest sympathy and love for his family...
Posted by: Seana Diemer | January 05, 2008 at 02:42 PM
I already asked the Kitten about the vile comment at 2:20.
Posted by: rilkefan | January 05, 2008 at 02:42 PM
Thank you for your selfless sacrifice. I'm not going to bring politics into this as your post obviously denounces using your name in such a way. But thank you, I'll never be half the man you were. If there is indeed a sort of afterlife, I can only hope to meet you there. HOOAH!
My condolences to the family.
Posted by: Mark G | January 05, 2008 at 02:45 PM
This is the only thing I know to say at times like these:
God, grant us the serenity
To accept the things we cannot change
Courage to change the things we can
And the wisdom to know the difference
Posted by: Timmer | January 05, 2008 at 02:54 PM
Condolances to Andy's family and loved ones.
Posted by: AndrewBW | January 05, 2008 at 02:54 PM
"Gary... add the 2:20 to your list."
I did moments after it appeared.
As I said, since I don't have keys to deletion, and Hilzoy is at lunch, and so far none of the other blogowners are on this, or have responded to e-mail, there will be a few hours delay in deletion of offensive [NOUN], but rest assured it will all be taken care of by nightfall. We're on it. No need to point out other comments by twits and jerks and trolls until another day has passed and they're still up.
I know people point it out because they care, and darn it, it's doing something. I know we all wish we could somehow do something.
I couldn't believe the news yesterday. I'm still absorbing, but now I grasp that it's real.
I do think Andrew would be glad that so many disparate folks could agree on anything. One of his primary drives was to try to reach out to people of differing views, and via reason, find points of agreement.
He was hardly perfect, being a man of temper and as many flaws as anyone, but that drive was one heck of a terribly admirable thing, and it was what brought us together, along with his great articulateness and thoughtfullness.
His many book reviews are well worth reading. Andrew was understandably drawn to works of military history and politics, but his interests ranged widely.
I feel the need to note that i was hardly one of Andrew's best friends. He knew many people endlessly better and longer, and his bonds with his friends in real life, and his service, are obviously vastly closer. I wasn't even one of his very best internet buddies, but merely one of them, and one who pissed him off a lot a lot of the time, and who was around for a long time. I'm unsurprised he didn't mention me in his last note; I don't want anyone to think I was Andy's best buddy, because I wasn't. I cared greatly about him, but innumerable people were far closer to him, and I didn't mean all that much to Andy. I don't even want to repeat what he said that made us stop speaking for almost a year, because he long since apologized and tried to make it right.
I just don't feel right if anyone were to get the wrong impression, is all. We were friends, but I'm sure I wasn't in his top twenty, or even fifty, compared to folks he'd known far longer, and let alone with whom he served with. (Not that Andy undervalued folks outside the service, of course.)
And now read the next message.
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 02:57 PM
Remarkable, this man I never knew however, as a former service member he has made the ultimate sacrifice for whatever his beliefs are, Respect.
Posted by: AA | January 05, 2008 at 02:59 PM
Rest easy brother!
Posted by: Michael | January 05, 2008 at 03:05 PM
I've never even heard of this site or Andy Olmsted before today, yet after reading this final posting by him and the comments from the people who did read his work I can tell lots about his character and that he was a really great person.
This post has taugh me more than whole books or speaches by countless people ever could. Yet I wish that I could somehow not have learned from it, not have ever even known about this great man knowning the events that made it so.
Wow, and guess what song started playing as I was reading? "Long Slow Goodbye" by Queens of the Stone Age.
Posted by: Dill | January 05, 2008 at 03:07 PM
Rest easy brother!
Posted by: Michael | January 05, 2008 at 03:08 PM
"We were friends, but I'm sure I wasn't in his top twenty, or even fifty,"
Okay, maybe top fifty. I'll be happy with that.
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 03:09 PM
Redhawk TOC is playing the 80's for you today sir, all day. Nothing like a tactical operations center rocking out to the sounds of yesterday....
Posted by: David | January 05, 2008 at 03:10 PM
i never knew andy, but i have a best friend in iraq right this second. reading his last post brought me to tears, and i had never even known of him till just now. Dumbledore: Today we acknowledge a really terrible loss. Cedric Diggory was, as you all know, exceptionally hard working, infinitely fair-minded, and most importantly, a fierce, fierce friend. Therefore, I feel you have the right to know exactly how he died. You see, Cedric Diggory was murdered, by Lord Voldemort. The Ministry of Magic does not wish me to tell you this. But not to do so I feel would be an insult to his memory. Now the pain we all feel at this dreadful loss reminds me, and, reminds us, that though we may come from different countries and speak in different tongues, our hearts beat as one. In light of the recent events, the bonds of friendship made this year will be more important than ever. Remember that, and Cedric Diggory will not have died in vain. You remember that, and we'll celebrate a boy who was kind, and honest, and brave, and true. Right to the very end.
Posted by: morgan | January 05, 2008 at 03:13 PM
From this day to the ending of the world,
But we in it shall be remembered-
We few, we happy few, we band of brothers;
For he to-day that sheds his blood with me
Shall be my brother; be he ne'er so vile,
This day shall gentle his condition;
And gentlemen in England now-a-bed
Shall think themselves accurs'd they were not here,
And hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks
That fought with us upon Saint Crispin's day.
Posted by: adrian leitch | January 05, 2008 at 03:14 PM
I have never read anything from this young man before, but I was very touched by it. I found it both insightful and sad. I have never read anyone's own obituary before and was pulled in and in some ways still in.
War is never the answer to anything, it is however, a justified means to survive. Whether or not this War was "the wrong answer" or "justified" is no longer for me to decide.
Good luck Andy,
I hope that there is an afterlife!
Posted by: Jamie Lane | January 05, 2008 at 03:15 PM
Just came over from FARK like so many others. I really regret not knowing about Major Olmsted's posts before now. God, what a soldier. What an eloquent writer. What an admirable man.
My sincerest condolences to his family, friends and comrades-in-arms. May his light shine on in those lucky enough to have known him.
Posted by: Kibby | January 05, 2008 at 03:16 PM
Magnificent legacy to leave to his family. Rest In Peace, Andy, we who you leave behind salute you!
Posted by: pris | January 05, 2008 at 03:19 PM
My condolences. A very powerful last message, it made a huge impact on me.
Posted by: P | January 05, 2008 at 03:21 PM
Amazing Man and Soldier. My respect and sincere appreciation to Major Olmstead. Rest in Peace...
Posted by: 1SG David A. Takacs, USA, Retired | January 05, 2008 at 03:23 PM
This is fucking terrifying; in honesty I haven't been to this blog until it was posted on Digg for this post in particular.. But it's extremely freaking sad. Just reading this final blog shows a lot about his character and how brave he really was.
Posted by: EriCKY | January 05, 2008 at 03:23 PM
May his soul rest in peace. His life will be an inspiration to many.
Posted by: Saravanan | January 05, 2008 at 03:23 PM
[comment deleted by The Management.]
Posted by: hannabanana | January 05, 2008 at 03:28 PM
I had hoped to meet him while we were over here together, after reading many of his posts, and enjoying his writing. Being a MiTT is the most important job he could have here, and I know that he made a difference. It is an incredibly hard job to do well: the men who do it have to make it up as they go along, because no manual can teach the human, cross-cultural interactions...and when coupled with a warzone and violence, truly remarkable men are needed. From his writings, it is clear that he loved it (as much as you can love anything that takes you away from home), and wanted to help the Iraqis in whatever manner he could.
Gary, you are the Pitbull friend every man needs, and you are making a difference in policing his memory, and providing the links for everyone else. Thank you.
My condolences to his wife and family. And thank you for sharing him with us.
Posted by: jrudkis | January 05, 2008 at 03:31 PM
The world is smaller for the passing of G'Kar.
If I take a lamp and shine it toward the wall, a bright spot will appear on the wall. The lamp is our search for truth... for understanding. Too often, we assume that the light on the wall is God, but the light is not the goal of the search, it is the result of the search. The more intense the search, the brighter the light on the wall. The brighter the light on the wall, the greater the sense of revelation upon seeing it. Similarly, someone who does not search - who does not bring a lantern - sees nothing. G'Kar Babylon 5.
Posted by: John Washburn | January 05, 2008 at 03:35 PM
Hi, I just discovered this blog today. Though my thoughts on this war tend to be negative, I must say that I am in awe of the courage demonstrated
by Andrew Olmstead. I am an American of non- native born hispanic parents. My mom has been here for 50 years now and still can't speak English correctly. But one thing my parents have always had is a deep love and affection for their adopted country complete with American flags all over the house. I can't help but be reminded that because of the dedication and sacrifice of your son/husband (and many others like him in the past), my parents were able to come to our wonderfull country and live out their potential.
May you rest in peace soldier. And thank you.
Posted by: santos | January 05, 2008 at 03:40 PM
I didn't even know this man but I'm sitting here crying, too. Can someone explain that to me?
Posted by: Tass | January 05, 2008 at 03:45 PM
"Go tell the Spartans,
Stranger passing by,
That here, obedient to their laws,
we lie."
-Inscription at Thermopylae
In his attempt at political neutrality, it seemed I saw these words. From 2,500 years ago, they remain relevant both to those who fall and those who passively or actively ensured that fall.
He is cradled in the arms of the Universe now. Would that we had had him among us even a short time longer.
Peace.
Posted by: Bob Kincaid | January 05, 2008 at 03:45 PM
I'm a stranger here...so my introduction to Andy Olmsted is belated and one-sided.
A granite monument would be too ostentatious, and a marble headstone entirely too small, to contain, engraved, these "last words" of a human being, a man, an American, and a soldier, who honored the contract he made with our country - whether for good or bad or, in the end, for Andy Olmsted, for all.
My condolences go out to those who knew and loved him.
Posted by: Reasonable | January 05, 2008 at 03:49 PM
Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for your words. No other words will fit. All I can say is thank you, and I'm sorry.
May the Lord bless and keep your family strong. May your wife find peace in your loving words. And may you be enjoying the peace of Heaven.
Posted by: Mad MOnica | January 05, 2008 at 03:53 PM
Godspeed to you, good sir.
Posted by: Doug | January 05, 2008 at 03:56 PM
When I commented last night at 1:07 AM, I misattributed the comment I was responding to. It was a comment by Vwarb, not by Dan. Sorry, Dan.
Posted by: peachkfc | January 05, 2008 at 03:56 PM
Thoughtful Samurai
With his shining sword in hand
In battle fallen
Posted by: Randy | January 05, 2008 at 03:59 PM
I've only now just learned of Andy's passing. I'm very sorry to say that I never had the pleasure or the priveledge of meeting him in person, however I will miss him very much. He was a good friend to me through our corespondence and I hope that I was to him.
Andy had a compassion and insightfulness rare in the world today. He could always make me smile with a kind word and his *hugs*. He was sweet and kind, funny and wicked. The world is all the poorer for his passing.
I know he said not to shed tears for him, but as I read the all too brief DOD release about his death, a tear came to my eye. Then as I read his last words, my vision was blurred by tears. However, it wasn't until I read the outpouring of love for him and support for his family that the tears began to flow freely down my face. For it was then that the realization that I will never meet this wonderful man truly struck home. I'm sorry, Andy...I hope I haven't let you down.
To his wife, Amanda, and his family....I have no words other than to say how VERY sorry I am for your loss. Inadequate words belieing heartfelt emotions.
Posted by: Meroe | January 05, 2008 at 04:04 PM
Rob: Yes. Well. Now I understand where this country's priorities lie: watching the NFL playoffs. Disgusting.
Posted by: jdoiter | January 05, 2008 at 04:04 PM
My profound sympathy to the major's family and many many friends. I enjoyed his blogs at the Rocky Mtn News for some time. I've not been this disturbed about someone I didn't know personally since Danny Pearl was murdered. Again, my profound sympathy to those that knew Andrew and the Captain's family too.
Posted by: gstewart | January 05, 2008 at 04:09 PM
An old interview with Andy from 2006.
He was nice enough to throw me a link in comments.
I'd almost forgotten what Andrew mentioned here, which was that he'd "been blogging since October 2001."
Salute to the guy who got there before I did (in December), as the least of things worth saluting.
----------
I just had a 20 minute conversation with a neighbor about Andy, whom he'd read about in the RMNews.
"I must say that I am in awe of the courage demonstrated
by Andrew Olmstead"
Olmsted. Olmsted. Olmsted. No "a" in "Olmsted."
Posted by: Gary Farber | January 05, 2008 at 04:10 PM
Just adding my condolences to the long, long list. May God rest his soul and bring comfort to his family.
Thank you, sir.
V/R J West
Posted by: J West | January 05, 2008 at 04:12 PM
Just adding my condolences to the long, long list. May God rest his soul and bring comfort to his family.
Thank you, sir.
V/R J West
Posted by: J West | January 05, 2008 at 04:13 PM