NOTES from the BIG CHAIR

Much goings on in terms of dispelling the myths about 21st-century American soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines. See here at Townhall.com.
And don't miss this story on the recent lecture by Qubad Talabani, son of Iraqi President Jalal Talabani, here in Columbia, South Carolina.
The story has since been picked up by a variety of blogs and news sources, including Iraqi Kurdistan's official site, the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, and Family Security Matters (FSM).
Speaking of FSM, I've been named to the board of advisors of this fantastic organization, which is dedicated to informing all Americans about the issues and solutions concerning national security.
Thrilled to be associated with FSM. More to come on that.
Also, I enjoyed some great barbeque and corporate tour of Fabrique Nationale, yesterday, hosted by my friends at the Columbia World Affairs Council. Yes, FN manufactures the vast majority of small arms for the U.S. military. Much more to come on that too.
Congratulations to Cadet Justin Self, an airborne/air-assault trained Ranger-hopeful who has been promoted to Company Commander for his upcoming year at South Carolina's storied military academy, The Citadel.
I'm particularly proud of this young warrior, because I taught him to hit the speed-bag at the Columbia YMCA, and his dad, Keith Self is a good friend (and probably the proudest dad I know).
And finally, "Bravo!" to my handsome, hyper-intelligent nephew, Michael Paul Fowler, who played the part of a knight in "Once upon a mattress," a wonderful play put on by the drama department at Lugoff Elgin High School, just up the road from Columbia.
Best,
WTSjr