Writer's Block: No reservations required

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Well, from the post title alone, Anthony Bourdain! No, he's not a "character" in the traditional sense, but I watch almost no scripted television at this point, and going to dinner with Bourdain would be an experience.

A mile in their shoes, if they had any.

I've seen a lot of negative commentary over the last few days about a news report that showed Libyan resistance fighters lining up not to receive weapons, but shoes, mostly Adidas sneakers. The general theme is "so, this is what we're aiding? Why aren't they getting guns?"

Nobody saying this ever spent a day as an infantryman. To a foot solider, taking care of your feet is just as important as having a cleaned, functional weapon. Look at how many of Bill Mauldin's WWII cartoons concerned foot maladies, dry socks, blisters, etc. Even in a modern army, us pukes carrying rifles spend a lot of time walking, running, clambering over things.. a good pair of shoes or boots is vital!

Everyone's heard of the Battle of Gettysburg, right? Did you know that the reason Major General Heth sent Pettigrew's Brigade into the town despite reports of Union cavalry in the area? Gettysburg was home to a shoe factory. The Army of Northern Virginia had marched their footwear to shreds, and needed replacements. This led to the battle that ended the threat of the Confederacy in the North. For want of shoes.

So right now, until the arms and ammo start flowing, the leaders are making sure that their troops have shoes and other basic supplies. The rebels are trying to build an army out of nothing. Cut them some slack. I will remind you that our first army had the exact same problems in 1775. We turned out alright.

Still remember my first pair of Leather Personnel Carriers fondly...