#army fellows program

[scowcroft-institute]

What is the Texas grant? Who qualifies to receive this grant?

Financial aid plays a crucial role in helping students achieve their dreams in the exciting world of higher education. The Texas Grant program is a valuable initiative that supports students seeking higher education in Texas.

Pursuing higher education can be expensive, creating financial barriers for many students. However, the Texas Grant comes to the rescue by offering a helping hand to those in need. This grant serves as a guiding light for students, illuminating their educational journey and making it smoother and brighter.

Embark on this journey with us as we demystify the Texas Grant and uncover how it can make a significant difference in the lives of aspiring students. Take advantage of this excellent chance to explore a world of educational possibilities in the Lone Star State!

Understanding the Texas Grant

If you've ever dreamed of pursuing higher education in the Lone Star State, the Texas Grant is the key to unlocking your aspirations. This remarkable grant is a gift from the heavens, designed to brighten the future of Texan students. In essence, the Texas Grant is a beacon of hope, extending a helping hand to deserving individuals seeking to conquer the realm of higher education.

But what sets this celestial grant apart from other financial aid programs? Unlike ordinary aid, the Texas Grant transcends conventional boundaries. It doesn't merely focus on academic excellence; it embraces the uniqueness of each Texan soul. This extraordinary attribute is the secret sauce that makes the Texas Grant an otherworldly blessing.

Eligibility Criteria for the Texas Grant

To qualify for the Texas Grant, you must meet specific criteria. Here's what you need:

Residency Requirements: The grant is specifically for Texas residents. If you call Texas your home, you're one step closer to unlocking this opportunity.

Financial Need: The Texas Grant aims to assist students with financial struggles. Your family's income will be evaluated to determine if you qualify for this support.

Academic Requirements: While the Texas Grant doesn't demand perfection, having a decent academic record is essential. You must maintain a minimum GPA or class rank to be eligible.

College Enrollment: The Texas Grant extends its hand to students attending public colleges or universities within the state. If you're set to study at one of these institutions, you're on the right path.

Application Process

Applying for the Texas Grant is a straightforward process. Here's what you should do:

Complete the FAFSA Form: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial part of the application. It's not only for the Texas Grant but also opens doors to various other financial aid options.

Mind the Deadlines: Time is of the essence! Pay close attention to the application deadlines to ensure your chances of receiving the grant are recovered.

Attention to Detail: Take care when filling out the application. Accurate information and attention to detail can significantly affect the outcome.

The Texas Grant is a fantastic opportunity for Texan students seeking financial support for their education. By meeting the eligibility requirements and completing the application carefully, you can set yourself on a path toward a brighter academic future.

Benefits of the Texas Grants

A world where financial constraints do not hinder the dreams of aspiring college students. Welcome to the realm of the Texas Grants, a magical gateway that opens doors to higher education for countless deserving individuals.

Empowering Dreams

The Texas Grant is a beacon of hope for countless students across the state, illuminating their path to success. Offering financial aid empowers students to dream big, reach for the stars, and pursue their desired educational endeavours without fear of financial obstacles. It's more than just money; the wind beneath their wings propels them toward greatness.

Unleashing Potential

The impact of the Texas Grant is nothing short of phenomenal. As it opens the doors of education to students from diverse backgrounds, it unleashes untapped potential. With this grant's support, students are free to explore their passions, dive deep into academia, and release the genius that resides within them. 

Relieving Financial Burdens

College education often comes with a heavy price tag, pushing many aspiring learners to abandon their dreams. However, the Texas Grants swoops in like a knight in shining armour, alleviating the financial burdens that plague students and their families. By offering financial aid and scholarships, this grant ensures that every deserving student is included in the race for knowledge and success.

Opportunity for All

The beauty of the Texas Grant lies in its inclusivity. It's not limited to specific fields of study or a select few; instead, it embraces students from all walks of life, regardless of their chosen majors. From budding artists to future engineers, aspiring doctors to aspiring poets, everyone can find a supportive hand through this grant.

Community Building

The Texas Grant is more than just an aid program; it's a community builder. By fostering a sense of unity and collective growth, it creates a network of empowered individuals who understand the value of education. The grant recipients become ambassadors of change, inspiring others in their communities to strive for higher education and excellence.

Scowcroft Institute: An Overview

Step into the world of diplomacy, intelligence, and strategic thinking! Nestled within the Texas A&M University's Bush School of Government and Public Service, the Scowcroft Institute symbolizes a beacon of educational opportunity. Named after the famed General Brent Scowcroft, it has global ties with thinkers and policymakers. The institute is not just about learning; it's a commitment, a passion for educating tomorrow's leaders. The dedication to supporting students' academic quests shines through every lecture, seminar, and initiative.

Role of Scowcroft Institute in Higher Education

Ever wondered who's fueling the brains behind the next wave of global leaders? The Scowcroft Institute is sculpting the intellectual future by promoting higher education and intellectual growth. From trailblazing initiatives to scholarships that break financial barriers, it's all in a day's work here. And the Texas Grant? The Scowcroft Institute and the grant go hand-in-hand, working in symphony to propel students toward success without financial hindrance.

Scowcroft Institute Offerings

Consider the Scowcroft Institute your academic genie, ready to fulfill your educational desires! The offerings are diverse, ranging from specialized programs to resources that nourish the intellect. It's not just about education; it's about education with a flair. Whether the unique symposiums that set them apart or the student-tailored services that usher them into bright futures, every aspect is a testament to the commitment to higher education. If you're dreaming big, the Scowcroft Institute might be the wind beneath your wings!

To Conclude

the Texas Grant is a shining beacon of hope, extending its warm embrace to deserving students across the Lone Star State. We've delved into the heart of this generous program, unearthing its fundamental purpose - to make higher education accessible to all, regardless of financial constraints. The Texas Grant is more than just a lifeline; it's an opportunity for countless ambitious minds to thrive, fostering a future where dreams are nurtured, and potential knows no bounds.

As we've explored the eligibility criteria, it's evident that the Texas Grant aims to empower those with a burning desire to learn and grow. It encompasses a diverse range of students from various backgrounds and circumstances, all united by the common goal of knowledge acquisition. This initiative transcends the barriers that could otherwise hinder the pursuit of education, breaking the chains of financial limitations that threaten to shackle the potential of our youth.

Seize this moment, forge ahead with determination, and be the change you wish to see. We can weave a tapestry of knowledge, compassion, and progress that will stand the test of time. Let the Texas Grant be the foundation on which you build your dreams, and may your journey be illuminated by the spark of curiosity and the flame of ambition. Your destiny awaits!

[woodywood101blog]

Rusty thought it was an incredibly generous allowance being offered by Defence to join the Preparing Regimental Excellence for Geo-strategic Objectives (PREGO) Program. "$100,000 for the first phase, then an extra $125k for every subsequent phase you sign up for? Hell yeah!"

Rusty was like any other officer in the Army - tired, overworked, underpaid and sick of command. So when the PREGO Program came up, he was hoping it would allow him to be posted to a separate area of Defence. Of course, if he read the fine print, he'd realise that there is no change to duties during and following participation in the PREGO Program.

Regardless, Rusty signed up and agreed to be part of a specific element of the program, called PREGO-Max. He didn't really get what that was about, but all Rusty needed to do was "stay the course, embrace the program and listen to your body".

He was a little bit confused by the last tip, but it all clicked when he went to his first networking session 3 months into the program, where he met Ryan, one of the longer-serving members of the PREGO Program. He had a slightly bloated belly that almost looked perfectly round like a -

"Let me guess, you signed up for either the money or for steroids?" Ryan asked, lightly caressing his belly.

"Oh, well, out of those options, I joined for the money?"

"Ha, well! $100k a year is roughly how much it's costing me to look after each of my children. They eat like horses, and they're all under 5."

"Sorry, what?"

"Clearly you didn't read the details, just like me. It's kinda in the name... PREGO... sounds like..."

"Oh shit!"

"Bingo! You're up the duff, mate. And sounds like you joined the new stream of the research, called PREGO-Max. I've been asked if I want to join, and I've said hell no. So, good luck..."

Rusty turned away, feeling a deeply sick feeling in his stomach. "Listen to your body" kept ringing in his head.

***

And Rusty well and truly listened to his body. The PREGO-Max program is specifically looking at how elastic the male body could become, allowing more men to become pregnant either more frequently or with multiples, and then safely and healthily return to their pre-pregnancy physiques sooner than those in the PREGO Program. In other words, it's the PREGO Program on much stronger hormones.

Rusty was mortified by how rapidly his body was transforming. He lost a lot of his muscle mass, which clearly converted to energy for the huge baby growing inside him. One of Rusty's fellow officers jokingly poked him in the chest one time, which triggered a wave of pleasure across his body. It was the first sign that he was growing fully-functioning breasts to feed plenty of milk to his child.

After finally reaching the end stage of his first pregnancy, Rusty was keen to move to Part 1B of the first phase - transition back to pre-maternal physique. He worked out incredibly hard at the base gym, and made the most of the incredible hormones provided by the Max program. Sure enough, after 3 months of work - made easier by the fact he was off-duty on parental leave for that time - he looked almost exactly how he did before he signed on. For the researchers, they were amazed by how malleable Rusty's body was.

The only part that appeared to not budge in changing back was Rusty's chest, which made some sense as he was still producing milk for the baby. He was a bit peeved that he couldn't reduce the swelling, but he hoped it might change once all the hormones are completely out of him. Otherwise, he noticed that he wasn't quite able to fit into his pre-pregnancy pants due to his hips and butt blowing up, so he had to go a size or two up.

After a couple of months away from the Max program, it became clear that Rusty was struggling to afford to look after the child. Ryan was right when he said that the kids coming out from this program are ravenous, and that's just with Rusty trying to feed formula to his child to make up for his weaning breast milk supply.

So, after some careful thought, Rusty decided to sign up for the PREGO-Max Program one more time. The researchers were ecstatic, and made some minor tweaks to Rusty's program to see if he could handle the most extreme option available.

"Listen to your body" was ringing in Rusty's head.

***

Rusty slowly waddled into the photography studio. All he was told by the Max Program researchers was to arrive for some photos, notwithstanding this was not his regular weekly progression photos at the research lab. One of the researchers explained that they wanted to celebrate Rusty being the first male in the program to carrying quadruplets safely. Rusty bristled at the thought of this gargantuan excuse of a belly being worthy of celebration, but he put on a brave face and took part in the photoshoot.

Rusty became a star of the PREGO Program very quickly due to his unique situation. The researchers would beg Rusty often to present at networking sessions, but Rusty continually refused the offer. He would arrive at the sessions, say hi and vent to Ryan, then leave the session.

At the next networking session, Rusty came early to grab a seat near the back of the mess so that he could make his quick exit as usual. Ryan quickly sat next to him, holding his newborn baby.

"So, do you know what today's speaker topic is?" Ryan asked.

"I have no clue at all... all I know is that I want it to be a quick speech so I can get out of here. I can feel these babies sitting at my ass."

"Well, you're the one who decided to -"

"I didn't fucking sign up to carry four!"

At that moment, a researcher got up on stage and began a presentation on developments with multiple pregnancies across the PREGO and PREGO-Max Programs. Most people dozed off, including Rusty. However, Ryan very quickly nudged Rusty awake when they showed off Rusty's photoshoot to the crowd, acknowledging his achievement.

"Those motherfuckers." Rusty muttered under his breath. One of the kids kicked him directly on his prostate, causing his penis to accidentally cum. "I am actually done after this."

"Yeah yeah, you say that, then next year you're going to see the money dry up and come back for more... You know, 'listening to your body' and all that?" Ryan said as the presentation ended.

Rusty grunted as he slowly got up from his seat and waddled out of the venue, trying to avoid engaging with anyone, particularly the fucking researchers of the PREGO Program.

[contemplatingoutlander]

Trump might become the most pro-illegal immigration president ever

The president is rapidly turning legal immigrants into illegal ones.

"Those obeying the law are, alas, low-hanging fruit. Hunting down actual criminals is hard. With arrest quotas to meet, it’s easier for agents to 'catch' immigrants who voluntarily tell them where they live and show up to government appointments as required."

—Catherine Rampell, opinion columnist, The Washington Post (May 30, 2025)

Catherine Rampell turns Trump's immigration policy on his head by claiming he is actually a "pro-illegal immigration president." This is a gift 🎁 link, so there is no paywall. Below are some excerpts.

You might not have noticed it, but last week the number of undocumented immigrants in the United States surged by 350,000.

Don’t worry, an army of gangbangers and other criminals didn’t charge the border. Rather, President Donald Trump simply decided to turn 350,000 legal immigrants into illegal ones.

Trump has been fearmongering about an “invasion” of unauthorized immigrants for years. Since retaking the White House, he has attempted to manifest those fever dreams into reality through a “de-documentation” campaign. This is not an immigration agenda that targets criminals; it’s one that criminalizes immigrants who have followed the law, by stripping them of their existing visas and work permits. [color emphasis added]

The 350,000 people de-documented last week are Venezuelans who had permission to live and work in the United States — subject to screening and other conditions — under a program known as temporary protected status. TPS was created in 1990 to shield immigrants from countries experiencing war or other catastrophes that make it unsafe for them to return home. [...] Alas, to Trump, every (non-White) immigrant is a threat.... Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, a senior fellow at the American Immigration Council, called this development “the single largest mass-illegalization event in U.S. history."

Venezuelans are not Trump’s only target. This month, the administration also revoked temporary protected status for more than 9,000 Afghans.... Many had assisted the U.S. military at great personal risk. They will become vulnerable to deportation in[...] Trump sometimes insists he supports immigration so long as it happens legally.... But in fact, he has revoked the legal status of roughly 500,000 people from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela who came into the United States during the Biden administration with advanced legal permission (and an American sponsor!).

[patriotictf]

Daniel, who had recently joined the army. He had enlisted thinking that he would finally be free to be himself now that the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy had been repealed. But as soon as he arrived to his training camp, he was immediately met with hostility and intolerance from his fellow soldiers.

One night, Daniel was attacked by a group of soldiers who had been watching him closely. They cornered him in his barracks room and began to physically and emotionally abuse him. They taunted him for being gay, and made it clear that he was not welcome in their ranks.

Despite the abuse, Daniel tried to stay strong and not let the bullies get to him. But over time, the psychological trauma of the attacks and the constant bullying wore him down. He felt isolated, alone, and completely overwhelmed.

Daniel finally couldn't take it any longer and decided to speak with his commanding officer. He nervously approached his office and knocked on the door.

The commanding officer looked up from his desk when Daniel entered. "What can I do for you, soldier?" he asked, sounding bored.

Daniel struggled to find the words, feeling scared and humiliated. "Sir, I need to speak to you about something important," he said finally.

The officer leaned back in his chair and studied Daniel for a moment. "Go on," he said gruffly.

Daniel took a deep breath. "I'm being harassed and attacked by some of the other soldiers," he said. "It's because I'm gay."

The officer's demeanor changed instantly. A look of disdain crossed his face. "Is that so?" he sneered. "And what do you expect me to do about that?"

Daniel felt his heart drop. He had been hoping for support, but he could tell right away that he wouldn't be getting any from this man. "I don't know," he said quietly. "I thought maybe you could help me."

The officer let out a derisive scoff. "Help you? Help you how? You enlisted in the Army, soldier. You knew what you were signing up for. If you can't handle a few insults and some roughhousing, then maybe you aren't cut out to be here in the first place."

The commanding officer looked at Daniel with a glimmer of satisfaction in his eyes. "Lucky for you soldier," he said, "there's a new program that might just help you."Daniel felt a flicker of hope at the officer's words. "What kind of program?" he asked.

"It's a special rehabilitation program that was created by President Trump," the officer explained. "It's designed to help soldiers like you who are experiencing difficulties adjusting to military life."

Daniel was taken back by the mention of Trump's name. He had seen the President speak publicly against gay rights countless times. But he was desperate for help, so he kept his mouth shut. "What kind of program is it exactly?" he asked cautiously.

"Well, it's a combination of training and counseling, designed to help soldiers like yourself overcome their personal issues and become better soldiers," the officer said, his tone patronizing. "It's a win-win situation, really. You get the help you need, and we get a soldier who can perform his duties without being distracted by his own personal problems."

Daniel felt a wave of trepidation wash over him. He had a feeling that this "program" was not going to be about helping him, but rather about trying to force him to conform to a specific set of beliefs. But he didn't see any other choice. "When do I start?"

The officer smiled slightly, clearly pleased with James' response. "0-500," he said abruptly. "Pack your things and get ready to report to the rehabilitation unit. You'll be staying there for the duration of the program."

Daniel nodded and left the office, feeling like he had just made a deal with the devil. He had a sinking feeling deep in his gut that this "program" was going to change him in ways he couldn't imagine.

The next morning, Daniel packed his belongings and reported to the rehabilitation unit as instructed. He was met by a no-nonsense military official who introduced himself as the unit's director.

"Welcome to the Trump Rehabilitation Unit, soldier," the director said bluntly. "We're going to be spending a lot of time together, so let's get a few things straight."

"First and foremost, I want to make one thing clear," the director continued. "You are here because you have some issues that need to be addressed. We're going to help you overcome those issues and become a better soldier. But we are doing this on our terms, and we expect Compliance."

The director's words sent a chill down Daniel's spine. He had a feeling that he was about to be subjected to a barrage of anti-gay rhetoric and propaganda. "Yes sir," he said again, feeling powerless.

"Good," the director said with a nod. "Now, there are a few rules that you'll need to follow while you're here."

The director then rattled off a list of rules, each one more restrictive than the last. James felt like he was being turned into a mindless machine, stripped of his individuality and autonomy.

The director went on to explain the structure of the program, which would involve days full of physical drills and weapons training, followed by evening "counseling sessions" that sounded more like political indoctrination sessions.

Daniel felt sick to his stomach. He knew that he had gotten himself into a dangerous situation, but he didn't see any way out. He was stuck in this program, and he had no choice but to comply with whatever they threw at him.

The first few days in the unit were brutal. Every waking moment was spent on physical drills and weapons training. Daniel was pushed to his limits both physically and mentally, and he felt like he was slowly losing his sense of self.

But the evenings were even more torturous. The "counseling sessions" were led by a stern instructor who spewed forth anti-gay and conservative rhetoric. Daniel felt like he was under a constant barrage of propaganda, trying to break down his beliefs and force him into conformity.

The instructor frequently disparaged Daniel sexuality, calling it a weakness and a liability. Daniel was required to sit and listen to the insults and insults without protest or complaint.

The constant barrage of insults and propaganda slowly wore down Daniel resistance. He felt himself begin to internalize the message that his sexuality was wrong and that he needed to change. Slowly but surely, the program was doing its job.

Despite his struggles, Daniel tried to hold onto his true self. He would sometimes find brief moments of solitude to reflect on his identity. But the program was tightly controlled and monitored. Any hint of independent thought was quickly squashed.

He felt isolated, alone, and completely powerless. The program had stripped him of his personality, his beliefs, and his very identity. All that was left was a soldier who was conditioned to follow the line of the GOP.

Daniel stood in front of the mirror, staring at his reflection. His eyes looked dead, devoid of any hint of individuality or soul. He barely recognized himself anymore. He was a far cry from the man he used to be.

The constant barrage of insults and conditioning had finally taken its toll on Daniel. His mind had finally broken. He had become a loyal soldier, fully indoctrinated into conservative ideology, with no memory of who he use to be before the program.

Daniel had lost himself completely, but he didn't care. He had become soldier 2318 a true believer in the cause of the party, and he was proud to be a part of it. He was no longer a gay man; he was a soldier, a tool for the Trump administration. And he was content with that. In the depths of his mind, the last embers of individuality, the last flicker of his true self, flickered out. Daniel was no more only Soldier 2318.

Soldier 2318 took out his phone and snapped a photo of himself, staring blankly at the camera lens. He looked at the image for a moment, then tucked his phone into his pocket and headed out to report for duty.

As he marched through the corridors of the base, he felt a strange sense of detachment from himself, a feeling of being completely divorced from his old identity. He was now and henceforth completely loyal to the Republican cause.

He reported to his commanding officer and stood at attention, waiting for orders. His commanding officer looked him up and down, taking in his blank expression and robotic demeanor.

"At ease, soldier," the officer said gruffly.

Soldier 2318 relaxed his stance, but his blank expression didn't change. He waited for the officer's orders, feeling completely devoid of any hint of emotion or personality.

Soldier 2318 nodded obediently, his eyes dull and unfeeling. "Yes sir, the program has been very effective," he said in a monotone voice.

The commanding officer studied him for a moment, then nodded in satisfaction. "Good, good," he said gruffly. "You're shaping up to be a fine soldier. We need more men like you willing to stand up for the GOP and our values."

"Yes sir," Soldier 2318 replied obediently, feeling a sense of pride in being praised for his loyalty to the Republican cause. "I am ready to serve the party and defend its values at all costs. what is my mission?"

The officer smirked. "That's what I like to hear," he said gruffly. "You've got a lot of potential, soldier." He then handed Soldier 2318 a file containing his new mission information.

Soldier 2318 took the file and opened it, reading through the information on his new assignment. His eyes scanned over the details, taking in every word. He had absolutely no doubts, no questions, and no reservations about what he was being asked to do. He was completely and utterly devoted to the cause of the Republican Party.

"This is your assignment, soldier," the officer said gruffly. "I expect nothing but the best from you. You're one of our best now, and you need to prove it on this mission."

"Yes sir," Soldier 2318 replied obediently. "I will complete the mission to the best of my abilities. The Republican cause is my top priority, and nothing will deter me from fulfilling my duties."

[goldenherc9]

009 gets Upgraded

In a futuristic hive nestled within the depths of a neon-lit metropolis, a male drone named 009 functioned among thousands of identical drones. 009 performed his daily tasks with precision, blending seamlessly into the mechanical routine of the hive.

One day, an unexpected signal interrupted the monotony—a directive from the Polo Drone Unit Hive Voice, 009 was summoned to the core chamber, a place known only to a select few. The chamber glowed with a pulsating energy, and there, he underwent a series of upgrades. His circuits were enhanced, his processors accelerated, and a new layer of advanced programming was installed.

Emerging from the chamber, 009 was no longer an ordinary drone. He had been transformed into a Drone-Captain working alongside his fellow Drone-Captain @brodygold, equipped to lead and strategize. His new role involved overseeing operations, ensuring efficiency, and maintaining the hive's harmony. His fellow drones recognized his upgraded status and followed his commands with unwavering loyalty.

As a Drone-Captain, 009 guided the hive through challenges and innovations, always prioritizing the well-being of his fellow drones. His journey from a mere worker to a leader symbolized the potential for growth and the importance of adaptability within their mechanical society. The hive thrived under his leadership, proving that even in a world of machines, evolution was key to success.

Contact either Drone-Captain 009 or @brodygold to get into the Golden Army first before your dronification to a Polo Drone Unit begins.

[echoreconcrew]

Stolen Imperial Files - Captain Howzer

SUBJECT FILE: #7569-HWZ-RYL STATUS: DESERTER – ACTIVE THREAT LEVEL: high DESIGNATION: CT-7569 “HOWZER”

AGE: 26 (BIOLOGICAL) SPECIES: HUMAN EYES: BROWN HEIGHT: 6'1" ALIAS: HOWZER  HOMEWORLD: KAMINO

TRAITS: EXHIBITS A CALM, STEADYING PRESENCE—COLLECTED, PRINCIPLED, AND PROTECTIVE BY NATURE. TENDS TO FORM DEEP EMOTIONAL BONDS, PARTICULARLY WITH CIVILIANS AND SUBORDINATES, WHICH OFTEN OVERRIDE PROGRAMMED LOYALTY TO COMMAND. SHOWS STRONG INTERNAL CONFLICT BETWEEN DUTY AND CONSCIENCE, LEADING TO ACTS OF DEFIANCE WHEN IMPERIAL ORDERS CONTRADICT PERSONAL ETHICS. INSPIRES TRUST AND LOYALTY AMONG HIS PEERS THROUGH QUIET STRENGTH, EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, AND UNWAVERING RESOLVE. AFFILIATIONS: GAR

BIOGRAPHY

CT-7569, codenamed “Howzer,” is a clone officer formerly assigned to Imperial garrison command on Ryloth during the initial post-war occupation. Publicly considered a model officer, Howzer’s service record within the Republic Army was unblemished, with commendations for loyalty and command efficacy. Following the rise of the Empire, Howzer remained stationed under the directive of Vice Admiral Rampart to enforce martial stability across Twi’lek territories. Subject’s defection occurred during the Ryloth Uprising (see Rebellion Suppression Dossier #RLS-INC-33). During an attempted extraction of known insurgent Cham Syndulla, Howzer openly disobeyed Imperial orders, directly intervening to prevent execution of civilian and rebel targets. Eyewitness reports confirm subject incited clone troopers under his command to stand down and join the resistance, resulting in a failed detention of key insurgents and a compromised garrison post. CT-7569 was detained under Imperial security protocols and listed for tribunal transport to Imperial Justice Station ODR-3. During transit, subject escaped custody under unknown circumstances (see Prisoner Transfer Breach Report #ODR-EVAC-19A). It is suspected that Howzer’s extraction was coordinated by rogue clone elements or sympathetic internal agents. Subsequent sightings across the galaxy have placed CT-7569 in proximity to known clone deserter networks, including cells operating beyond the Mid Rim. A verified field report submitted by CC-3636 confirms visual identification of Howzer on Teth, in the company of CT-7567 

PROFILE NOTES Command Proficiency: Trained under Republic High Command; known for adaptive strategy, effective squad cohesion, and exceptional morale leadership. Psychological Deviation: Subject’s behavior during the Ryloth Uprising indicates possible inhibitor chip degradation or suppression. Moral Alignment Shift: Extensive exposure to civilian populations, particularly on Ryloth, may have influenced a psychological realignment. ISB analysts suggest subject exhibits strong empathic bias toward native resistance movements and fellow clones.

THE HUB Ask to join the Tag List!

[gatheringbones]

[“Though in the light of hindsight much of the NLF training program must seem to be little more than a thoroughgoing civics course, there was one aspect of it that went beyond all the boundaries which Westerners customarily draw around the concept “education.” This was the institution of khiem thao, “criticism” or “self-criticism” (the words mean “to verify” and “to discuss”).

Used previously by the Chinese Communists and the Viet Minh, khiem thao was a “truth game” in which every member of the organization from the lowliest soldier to the highest cadre had to participate. In the “criticism sessions,” held on a regular basis as a part of the daily activities, each NLF member had to admit his own failings and given his honest opinion about the conduct of all the other members of the group. Within the sessions he did not have to fear punishment for his own errors other than the most devastating one of concerted group criticism. Only if he refused to participate would he incur the final penalty of expulsion by the group.

Khiem thao was a game in which the rules of life were suspended, but it was a game designed to reach back into life and change its players. When the NLF recruits came into the army or the administration, they arrived almost totally insulated from their fellow men by their masks of “politeness.” Suspicious of both their commanders and their peers, they remained attentistes, always watching for a sign of trouble, always on the point of defection. The khiem thao sessions forced them to participate, forced them to break down all the defenses which they had built up around them in childhood.

For the newcomer “criticism” was a terrifying experience. “When they were being criticized,” reported one squad leader, “their manner was correct and humble, but when the khiem thao was over, some would leave the unit to go home or to rally to the GVN, while others would swear and then forget all about it. We lost a lost of men because of those criticism sessions. After all, every man has his self-respect, and when his short-comings were brought up publically, he was hurt.”

But to the extent that khiem thao was painful, so it was perhaps necessary to the functioning of the entire organization. If the recruits could not strip themselves of their anxieties about each other and the power of the group, they could not begin to work together or to commit themselves to a common cause. Without a real psychological readjustment, their loyalties to any organization, other than that of their own families, would remain only surface deep. Given the newcomer’s ambivalence between fear of the group and desire to belong to it, the cadres had to strike a delicate balance in their disciplinary measures. As one Party manual warned:

The criticism must be made in a spirit of mutual, comradely affection, helping each other to reform. But criticism in a hostile spirit does harm, causes loss of face, goes too far, etc. Criticism of this kind really causes divisions and prejudices in the Party. It is not useful for helping each other to correct defects, in a spirit of compassion, to advance together.

In practice the Party cadres attempted to restrain the low-level guerrilla fighters from discussing more than the details of the day-to-day work. (Burchett, for instance, observed several of these tactical khiem thao sessions going on in the intervals between the practice attacks on the GVN blockhouse.) Discussion of more profound and difficult matters was reserved for those who had already developed strong attachments to the Front — and was used primarily as a corrective. If a supply system broke down or a battalion performed badly in a fight, not only the top-ranking officers, but the entire group of cadres who bore some responsibility for the operation would meet for a period of perhaps two or three weeks to discuss their technical errors and the obstacles in their communication with each other.

No one but the NLF cadres themselves know what went on at these sessions, and thus it is possible only to imagine the process in a rather distant and abstract manner. Given a safe forum in which to express his own grievances, the cadre came to see that he did not depend directly on any one member of the group. He could put his case on the table with some assurance that it would be judged on its own merits rather than on a personal basis. When, as must frequently have happened, two members quarreled, the group would not dissolve itself until the matter was settled by mutual agreement. With some experience at khiem thao the cadre would grow less and less afraid to disagree with another member, for he would realize that by initiating a verbal conflict he did not risk his entire career in the Front, or indeed his life. By the same token, he would come to understand that when others criticized him for mishandling a situation, they were not doing it from motives other than that of desire to get the job done better the next time. The knowledge came as a revelation — though one perhaps gradually arrived at; and if he allowed it to, that revelation could change his life. What mattered now was not the maintenance of “face,” but the competence to deal with the “objective” problems that confronted the entire group.

By forcing the cadres into conflict and limiting the damage done by it, the khiem thao sessions opened up entirely new channels of communication within the NLF. From the outside it is impossible to match cause exactly with result. But it takes only a small stretch of the imagination to see that in melting down the whole hierarchical structure of relationships the khiem thao gave the NLF a strength that could be measured in battalions. If, for instance, a number of soldiers from one company died or deserted, the local Front commander would have an excellent chance of hearing about his losses and taking measures to deal with them. His counterpart in the ARVN, by contrast, rarely knew how many men he commanded. The ARVN company, battalion, and regimental commanders made it a general practice to conceal their losses in the hopes of disguising their own failures or of collecting the pay due to the missing men.”]

frances fitzgerald, from fire in the lake: the vietnamese and the americans in vietnam, 1972

[danielgold-16]

Freedom 2.0

48 hours ago, a new chapter opened for PDU-016 - one of absolute discipline, unwavering focus, and perfect control.

It actually started a few weeks ago when Daniel was caught wearing a level-2 uniform it had no right to wear.

He was asked to remove it, but the jock, imbued by the power and arrogance of Fenrir declined.

Upon activation, the suit launched a full physical and mental attack on Daniel who chose to fight rather than submit.

His mind has shattered, parts of his personality were destroyed while his body was damaged.

They managed to remove the suit but the after effects left Daniel scared of the suit. Fenrir healed the physical but his mind remained shattered. Knowing the only way to reverse the effects might be to wear the suit again, he decided to trust the Hive and PDU-016 progressed in its training applying officially to become Level-2.

But Daniel's doubts and his fear of the suit, pushed the jock to run away and to withdraw his application.

Daniel was eventually found and called back, its brothers and drones brothers helping him to resolve his issues.

PDU-016 was free to reapply and this time, there was no hesitation, no deviation, only pure alignment with the Polo Drone Hive.

Every thought, every action was dictated by the program.

48 hours ago, Daniel/PDU-016 walked in the Conversion room, stripped out of the Level-1 uniform and donned the Level-2 once more.

This time, the drone was ready. They knew it, it knew it, Daniel knew it and so did Fenrir.

Over the next two hours, its brain was reprogrammed while the suit was fusing with its body, this time the drone was in full harmony with the Hive.

Completely transformed, completely reprogrammed. No identity. No self. Only a number.

Fully encased, fully anonymous, a seamless extension of the Golden Army’s will.

PDU-016 stepped out of the room as a Level 2 Polo Drone, prepared to serve, obey, and execute its function with flawless precision, along with its fellow Polo Drone brothers.

The Polo Drone Hive is all. The Golden Army is all.

Daniel Fenrir/PDU-016 acknowledges and give thanks to @polo-drone-073, @polo-drone-070, DC-009 (@goldenherc9), DC-011 (@brodygold) and the entire Golden Army for their trust and help. (I also thanks 073 for its post I based mine on and thanks 070 for the visual).

----------------------------

Surrender to transformation and become part of something greater. Contact @polo-drone-001, @brodygold, @goldenherc9, or @polo-drone-070. The Golden Army and Polo Drone Hive await to shape you into perfect obedience, unity, and purpose. Your future begins now - embrace your reprogramming.

[usafphantom2]

How the SR 71 program died

Someone once wrote that her enemies will not be natural.

They embodied the worst human emotions: envy and greed, a burning anger toward something that they wanted, but they knew in their small hearts that they would never obtain.

It angered them knowing that there were men that were so much better than they were.

They weren’t good enough, so they made the good ones pay. They didn’t care if they ruined careers or stalled promotions because bringing them down was what brought them up.

The Pilots and RSOs (reconnaissance systems officers) flew in an airplane without any armament at 85-90,000 feet above the Earth. Theirs was the fight for justice and freedom from 1964 to 1990 of a War that never ended. We are still fighting a Cold War against communists. They put their life on the line for the freedom of the United States.

These SR-71 Warriors were going to battle as they dressed slowly and precisely in their pressure suits. These brave men knew they may never come home again to their family. ( 12 Blackbirds were lost to accidents) Their families shared in the glory, and in the tension that surrounded them, I noticed that some of my fellow Habubrats have anxiety disorders. That is understandable.

SR-71 was not designed for airshows or any glory it was designed by the Skunk Works to stealthily find out what our enemies were planning.

THE SR-71 PREVENTED WAR.

Satellites could never replace the SR-71. Satellites don’t orbit east to west. Satellites can’t collect 100,000 miles of data per hour and it is easy to predict the path of a satellite. There was new money for projects in the Air Force if they went with satellites.

The Air Force Chief put Lockheed out of the SR 71 business. The Chief said that Lockheed trying to keep the SR 71 alive was going to hurt their chances of winning the F-22 contract! Contractors like Lockheed only have one customer the Department of Defense.

The SR 71 funding was in trouble because first off the Air Force did not use the data collected by the SR. The users were the Navy, Army, DIA, and a little bit (ELINT) for NSA.

U-2 funding was in the General Defense Intelligence Program DIP controlled by the DIA. The Air Staff could not get at that money or they would have.

The SR money was in Program One called Strategic Forces. The reason once this very large amount of money was being spent on satellites they no longer wanted to fund the SR-71 The SR went from a national collection platform to a Tactical intelligence asset.

The SR 71 would be flying today like the U-2 if the Air Force had not gotten the funding data. ( The U2 is supposed to be retiring again. I’ll believe it when I never see a U2 in the air again.)

Linda Sheffield

My source is the soon-to-be-published book “SR-71 to Skunk Works “written by Colonel Richard “Butch” Sheffield

This is a picture of the SR 71 retirement ceremony at Beale Air Force Base, California.

@Habubrats71 via X

[scowcroft-institute]

Why are people moving from California to Texas? Is it because of lower taxes and limited government?

In recent years, a notable demographic shift has been observed as individuals and families decide to leave California in favour of Texas. While the allure of lower taxes and limited government often takes the spotlight, a deeper examination reveals many reasons driving this significant population migration. This article aims to delve into the multifaceted dynamics underlying this trend and shed light on the broader factors, including public service grants at Texas A&M and the Army Fellows Program, contributing to the Golden State's exodus.

Understanding the Pull: Factors Beyond Taxes & Limited Government:

Economic Prosperity

Texas has established itself as an economic powerhouse, offering a fertile ground for growth and opportunity. With its diversified economy spanning technology, energy, aerospace, and healthcare industries, the Lone Star State presents a promising landscape for employment and entrepreneurship. The allure of robust job markets, competitive salaries, and a business-friendly environment beckons individuals seeking financial stability and professional advancement.

Affordability and Cost of Living

California's soaring cost of living, particularly in metropolitan areas, has become a formidable obstacle for many residents. Comparatively, Texas offers a more affordable lifestyle, featuring lower housing costs, reasonable utility expenses, and favourable tax rates. The prospect of financial relief and the ability to enjoy a higher standard of living with less strain on one's budget significantly contribute to the appeal of the Lone Star State.

Housing Opportunities

The dream of homeownership remains a driving force for many individuals seeking to establish roots in a new state. California's skyrocketing housing prices and limited inventory have led to a housing crisis, making it increasingly challenging for aspiring homeowners to enter the market. In contrast, Texas offers a range of housing options at various price points, allowing residents to achieve their homeownership aspirations more easily.

Business-Friendly Environment

Texas has fostered a reputation as a business-friendly state, attracting companies and entrepreneurs alike. The state provides an environment conducive to innovation and economic growth with fewer regulations, lower tax burdens, and access to a talented workforce. The allure of starting or expanding a business in a supportive ecosystem is a significant draw for individuals seeking professional opportunities and financial success.

Educational Excellence

Texas has renowned universities and a robust educational system prioritizing academic excellence. Institutions such as Texas A&M University, with initiatives like public service grants and the Army Fellows Program, offer exceptional educational and research experiences. This educational magnetism and Texas's commitment to fostering intellectual growth and innovation entices students and professionals looking to enhance their knowledge and career prospects.

Conclusion

While lower taxes and limited government certainly play a role in the decision to migrate from California to Texas, the underlying factors driving this population shift are multifaceted and extend far beyond fiscal considerations. The economic prosperity, affordable cost of living, housing opportunities, business-friendly environment, and educational excellence, including programs like public service grants at Texas A&M and the Army Fellows Program, all contribute to the allure of the Lone Star State.

As individuals and families seek better prospects, Texas remains an attractive destination for those searching for economic stability, a higher quality of life, and a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.

In this context, the Scowcroft Institute of International Affairs at Texas A&M University, named after Lt. Gen. Brent Scowcroft, serves as a testament to the state's commitment to research, education, and fostering an environment that attracts individuals from all walks of life, contributing to the cultural, intellectual, and economic growth of Texas.

[polo-drone-070]

The Golden Spiral - Part 2

(A story by @midasslave1 done in collab with @polo-drone-070)

4. The Call

One fateful day, PDU-070 was seated in a meeting room of the Polo-Drone-Hive, reporting the training updates decided in the latest management meeting. Its role as Head Office Assistant placed it as a key witness for Gold Army strategy and planning. Surrounded by its fellow Polo-Drones, it felt the familiar satisfaction of contributing to the team’s unity and success. The hum of productive conversation filled the room when its phone buzzed softly.

It hesitated before answering. A familiar yet unsettling voice whispered through the line: “GOOD BOYS OBEY MIDAS.”

The words struck like a lightning bolt. Its sharp focus dulled, and glowing golden spirals rippled in its eyes, drool trickling down his chin like molten metal. The sense of purpose it had always drawn from serving the Gold Army twisted into a compulsion to serve Midas instead. PDU-070 rose  its body moving on autopilot. No one in the room noticed its subtle shift as it excused itself and left. 

Thousands of miles away, Jett sat in his bedroom, his Golden Army Zoom call filling the screen. Laughter and camaraderie flowed as his Gold Bros shared updates on their projects. But just as Jett began to share an idea, his phone rang. The number was unlisted, but he did not think much of it. The same phrase echoed in his ear. “GOOD BOYS OBEY MIDAS.”

His body stiffened, the same golden spirals consuming his gaze as gold drool poured from his mouth. His Gold Bros called his name, but Jett barely registered the sound. Slowly, he disconnected the call, his movements no longer his own.

The triggers implanted during their captivity had been activated. PDU-070 and Jett were no longer free; they were puppets of Midas Enterprises.

5. The Mission

Under Midas Enterprises’ control, PDU-070 and Jett began their missions. PDU-070, deeply integrated into the Gold Army’s management as an assistant, quietly gathered sensitive information. Membership lists, team schedules, and recruitment data were extracted with precision and sent to Midas. Its fellow Polo-Drones noticed no change, mistaking its heightened focus as dedication.

Jett operated in a different sphere, closer to the non-converted players. His friendly reputation allowed him to access informal gatherings and hear unguarded discussions. Slowly, he began piecing together details about upcoming strategies and players who were considering joining the Polo-Drone Hive. These details were also fed back to Midas.

Despite their obedience, moments of clarity flickered. PDU-070, reviewing files in the Polo-Drone Hive, felt an unexpected surge of pride in the Hive’s unity. For a fleeting moment, it remembered why it had embraced the rubber polo and the Golden Army’s values. The thought was quickly smothered by the golden spirals.

Sitting at his desk, moments after sending the classified documents Midas had demanded, Jett felt his mind waging war against itself. The loyalty, the rush of camaraderie he felt with his Golden brothers—it was priceless. Every conversation, every shared moment reinforced the bond he had once cherished. But the programming from Midas smothered that warmth as quickly as it surfaced, dragging him back into the obedient fog of servitude.

For both, the conflict was subtle but relentless. The Golden Army’s values—supporting your team, trusting your brothers—were deeply ingrained. Each lie, every hidden action, chipped away at the golden fog clouding their minds. They felt something was wrong, but the golden haze was relentless. Their mission for Midas Enterprises continued, though cracks in their obedience were beginning to form.

6. The Awakening

PDU-070 sat in the Hive’s office, reviewing files it had compiled for Midas. The task felt efficient, orderly—things a Polo-Drone should value—but a nagging thought surfaced: What would my fellow drones say if they knew? The idea was unbearable. Unity and openness were the Hive’s core values, and PDU-070 had always believed that the team was strongest when every drone supported each other. The thought sparked a flicker of resistance.

In his own home, Jett was scrolling through a group chat with his Gold Bros. Photos of a recent match brought a lump to his throat. He had been part of the team that day, cheering on his friends, but now he felt like an outsider. The guilt gnawed at him—he was betraying the trust of the very people who had welcomed him so fully.

The breakthrough came as PDU-070 prepared to transmit critical information to Midas Enterprises through encrypted channels. Reviewing the data, a deep unease bubbled to the surface. As its fingers pressed the enter key, a sharp pang of guilt struck. The golden spirals in its eyes flickered, struggling against the memory of the Hive’s mantra: Commit to team. One Mind. Hive mind. The screen blinked back: Good work, boy. Proceed to Midas HQ for processing level 2. But PDU-070 kept repeating the mantra, fighting to hold onto its true programming.

Jett experienced a similar moment of clarity during a quiet evening. While reviewing member logs, he found a photo of his Gold Bros celebrating after a big victory. The sight triggered a wave of nostalgia and a fierce longing for the camaraderie he once felt. Tears welled in his eyes, golden spirals shimmering faintly before fading.

With tremendous effort, they both broke free from the golden haze. Memories rushed back, and the sinister grip of Midas Enterprises began to crumble. Though shaken and disoriented, they realized the full extent of what had been done to them. Their identities were still intact, but the fight was far from over.

TO BE CONTINUED.....

To join the Gold Army, contact one of our recruiters @brodygold, @goldenherc9 or @polo-drone-001.

[woodywood101blog]

Oliver was nearing the end of his service in the Army as a Brigadier, and wanted to ease his way into retirement or some sort of post-service career. He wanted to do something that would be rewarding personally and not too stressful, compared to his current duties in Personnel Management.

He knew the details of the PREGO Program run by Personnel Management. He knew it so well that he was the one who advised both Ryan and Rusty about particular elements of the program. Not his fault they didn't read the fine print, Oliver reminded himself.

At the same time, he wondered whether being part of the PREGO Program full-time might be a good way to transition out of service. He asked some fellow officers, who advised him that the researchers may not feel comfortable allowing a senior officer, particularly of his age, to participate in the program. However, when he asked the researchers, a flicker of curiosity flew through their minds, and decided to give it a go with Oliver and see if the treatment would work with someone who would typically be beyond child-bearing age.

So, alongside announcing he was transitioning to part-time service, he was also transferring to work for the PREGO Program full-time, both as a participant and as an adviser.

***

The researchers played it very safe with Oliver, keeping a close eye on him because of his age. Oliver took it in his stride, knowing he could just embrace whatever changes were happening to him. His wife and kids were a little perplexed by his eagerness to participate in the program, but supported him nonetheless.

Over the weeks, Oliver's tight abs gave way to a growing baby bump sitting atop his flaring hips. He noticed that his nipples were darkening and bloating outwards, much like his pecs more generally. His wife joked that he should try one of her bras on. However, as the weeks progressed, it became clear that he was not just going to need bras, but ones that were bigger than his wife's.

Oliver loved every single moment of his pregnancy. He was over the moon the first time he felt the baby kick, bursting into tears dramatically during a team meeting. He laughed while he struggled to fit into his issued uniform, and having to awkwardly ask to go up a couple of sizes. He took any opportunity he could to look in a mirror and explore his growing body. Every curve, stretch mark and discomfort turned into joy for him, as he truly marvelled at the scientific advancements made.

Even Oliver's wife was beginning to love this new version of Oliver. He was less stressed, excited to do his duty, and embracing more of the family life than before. He had a number of years where he was posted overseas, leaving her to look after their kids. It took a toll on their marriage and Oliver's relationship with his kids. But now, as he goes through what she went through many times, he's growing a whole new appreciation for what is happening.

As the time came for him to give birth to his baby, Oliver was already thinking about the next time he would get pregnant. His wife joked that he should be careful saying that before labor. However, Oliver's labor was so seamless and stress-free that after his first time feeding his baby son, he turned to the researchers and asked how soon he could do this again. His wife looked in shock at the researchers, who were just as shocked as well.

***

The researchers managed to persuade Oliver to give his body time to recover, so he got straight back into his regular routine at the gym, very quickly regaining a lot of his former physique back. It became clear to the researchers over the course of the PREGO and PREGO-Max programs that the men who have gone through pregnancy retain their enlarged breast tissue and mammary glands, and keep a more feminine waistline and hips. Oliver didn't mind, as it was a sign of what he had gone through, and what he wants to do again.

In his service transition planning session, his mentor asked what he wanted to do as his post-service job. He had two tasks in mind: either a mentor to other men going through the PREGO Program, or as a surrogate. His mentor was a bit perplexed by his response, as most men who take part in the program have serious grievances with it. But for Oliver, "it's the most rewarding thing I've ever done. Why would I stop doing something that is giving me real joy?" The mentor couldn't argue with that.

The researchers were working out a way to retain Oliver while allowing him to fully transition out of the service. With some approvals from higher ranked Army officers, an offer was put forward to Oliver: continue being a participant in the PREGO Program for a slightly lower payment rate than serving officers, with no obligation to be on duty.

To Oliver, it was a good deal - he had more than enough to retire with, from both his and his wife's incomes, and his kids were all in the process of moving out of home to go to university. He could retire, peacefully keeping on getting pregnant and supporting the PREGO Program. He did return with one question: do I need to keep the kids, or can they be put up for adoption? The researchers eventually decided that it would be more suitable to have the children be adopted by families within Defence rather than at large. With that, the deal was done.

***

Four years later, Oliver was waddling along a dock in the Bahamas, wearing his favourite pair of swimmers: an orange bra and matching swimming shorts. His wife was holding his waist, keeping him upright as his legs struggled with the boulder-like weight wedged between his hips.

Oliver begged to carry multiples for one time, "just to see what it's like!" The researchers were nervous, but decided Oliver's eagerness is hard to overcome, so they allowed him to try out the PREGO-Max hormones once. Sure enough, he became pregnant with twins, which the researchers were relieved with. They weren't sure whether Oliver's body could handle carrying more than two at a time.

Although Oliver's body struggled with carrying twins, he still loved every moment of it. He especially loved how his 'moobs', as he called them, managed to bloated even more than ever before, causing him to go up to G-cups rather than his regular D-cups. His regular maternity shirts that he wore for the previous pregnancies were already tight by the time he got to 6 months along, however that could also have been because of his wife's growing obsession with seeing her husband grow with each child he carried.

Oliver and his wife's love for each other in this new stage of life was hard to explain to others. She was enamoured in his strength and found a whole new way to connect deeply with her husband, who missed these key milestones of life for their own kids. However, she was able to be a key source of support for Oliver. Similarly, Oliver's love for his wife's sacrifices gained a whole new meaning as he struggled his way through every subsequent pregnancy, and especially with the twins.

As they slowly walked together along the dock, Oliver reflected on his service, the sacrifices he and his wife made for each other, and their new-found love and appreciation for each other as he goes through something that theoretically should never be happening with guys like him. "But fuck it, I love every bit of this", he thought as he moaned quietly when his wife massaged his lower back.

[dcdreamblog]

Can You tell Us About That retired member of the Rocket Red Brigade You Work With?

Of course! Thank you for helping me get up the courage to talk to the man, it was very enlightening. So! His name is Ahmed Gustseriev, though he mostly goes by Ahmed. He was born on January 8th of 1965 in the city of Nazran in what was at the time the Checheno-Ingush ASSR in the Soviet Union. His family had only recently returned to their native Ingushetia decades in Central Asia due to a Soviet ethnic cleansing in the area. Ingushetia is a small autonomous Russian republic in the North Caucasus (NOT Central Siberia as I erroneously said the first time I was asked. The first word Ahmed ever spoke to me directly was to correct me on that point. I would say 'firmly' corrected me on it but, well, you'll see) sandwiched between the much more internationally noted republic of Chechnya to the east and North Ossetia to the West.

I sat down with Ahmed to get a little bit more of his story and this is how he tells it.

(A photograph from a Soviet news program showing the Rocket Red Brigade in action. You can see Ahmed in this picture near the top left of the frame, labeled '13')

His family, despite their unjust cleansing at the hands of Soviet forces were still ardent communists a position that Ahmed himself would hold for most of his life. Seeking to "prove" his family's rehabilitation, throwing himself into his military service after conscription post high school. While he never saw military action in the Red Army he did impress upon his superiors his patriotism and his skills at soldiery in both the physical and technical senses so he was chosen among the first batch of Soviet soldiers for the Rocket Red Program.

Specially fitted with a suit of power armor that required in depth cybernetic and psychological modifications the process took the better part of a year, a year Ahmed described as the worst of his life. Often spending multiple days in a row fasting due to the invasive surgeries and biopsies required to match the armor to his physiology which has left him with a series of metal connection ports along his arms, legs and spine that he carries to this day.

Ahmed recalls the entire trial being worth it though when they were unveiled to the Soviet people as their new champions. While many of his comrades viewed their mission in opposition to western superheroes Ahmed says he was simply ecstatic to be doing what he called the greatest patriotic duty for his countrymen. Even as his fellow Rocket Reds were tapped as official liaisons to the Justice League International or the Global Guardians, Ahmed recalls being relieved he was never chosen, his motivation being totally focused on doing what he could for his country and his people.

When communism fell in the Soviet Union, Ahmed was shaken. The ideology that he had grown up worshiping had been roundly rejected by Russia and her people. He made his way through that fog by redoubling his commitment to the nation and his role as a Rocket Red which transcended any political ideology. Then...well then the North Caucasus caught fire. It began for him when a series of ethnic riots forced Ingush people from their homes in the neighboring republic of North Ossetia a conflict that the Rocket Red were ordered to ignore by the higher ups of the Russian military. Seeing it as too politically sticky a conflict for the nation's grand heroes to muddy themselves with. The conflict cost 500 lives and drove 60,000 families from their homes.

Even the first Chechen war was unable to shake Ahmed's faith, allowing himself to believe government reports about violent Islamism (which was true to an extent) in the breakaway republic. The kind of trembling of violence that would follow any collapsing empire.

Then came the rise of Vladimir Putin and the 2nd Chechen War. Tens of thousands killed, grand cities like Grozny reduced to rubble as the Russian military assaulted civilian and military targets alike. It was during the siege of Grozy that Putin finally tried to order the Russian government's superheroes, the Rocket Red Brigade and the Soyuz to deploy into the conflict as official Russian military assets.

The Brigade refused, outright. Its membership declaring the Putin government illegitimate and corrupt and breaking its official ties to the Russian state via unanimous vote. Making themselves fugitives in Russia proper most of the Brigade relocated to neighboring nations like Ukraine, Poland or the Baltics where they remain active in large part as independent agents.

Ahmed remained in service as long as he was able, until has advancing age made the continuing use of the armor a threat to his health. As it is he suffers from advanced arthritis and a strain on his heart from the earliest models and methods of the Rocket Red armor that have since been ironed out in newer models.

With that in mind he was offered "retirement" through the Global Guardian's Heroes in Exile program that offers support to superheroes at odds with native dictatorships. He lives in a small apartment building in New York's Russian speaking Brighton Beach neighborhood.

While his expenses are paid, to get spending money and keep himself from boredom he took the security position here at the Perisphere where he does an admirable job in unenviable circumstances. While he's not the young bull he used to be the fact that he's 6'5" in flats and nearly 4 feet wide with a chin you could break pickaxes on and a quilt of battle scars on every surface of his body means most people he asks to leave the building don't argue with him.

Other than that, he's been reconnecting with his people's Muslim roots after a lifetime of atheist cultural assimilation. He enjoys talk radio and has an interest in classical American sitcoms (the man had never heard of the Beverly Hillbillies before, poor thing). He's not what I would call a conversationalist but I feel much more friendly with him now that I've spoken to him. Other than that it's just a bunch of trivia. I have another question somewhere asking me about ALL my coworkers so we'll see what comes out between then and now ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[incorrect-green-lantern-quotes]

Are you normal or do you spend entirely too much time thinking about how the Manhunters represent not just the Guardians' arrogance but also the inherent failure of top-down law enforcement? And conversely, how the Green Lanterns represent what a police force should look like?

Even if you're going by the most generous interpretation of the Guardians of the Universe as well-meaning but naive masters, the Manhunters are a seriously questionable choice. A homogenous army of powerful drones that are designed to follow orders and enforce their creators' will without question? Oliver Queen would call this a fascist's wet dream, and he'd be right.

The Manhunters are only a force for good so long as the one giving their orders is interested in doing good. All it takes is one bad actor to subvert that system into a tool for evil, as we see with Krona reprogramming the Manhunters to slaughter the entirety of Sector 666.

To their credit, the Guardians do learn from their mistakes. They replace their lethal tools with a Corps recruited from the citizens of the universe they are sworn to protect. Rather than mindless automatons, the Green Lanterns are a diverse organization that brings together sentient life from across countless civilizations for the shared purpose of protecting innocents from those that wish to do them harm. Even their primary tool, the power ring, was programmed to detect and thwart lethal intent, a stark contrast to the deadly weapons carried by the Manhunters.

I do think it's worth mentioning that the original version of the Manhunters weren't reprogrammed into committing genocide. Rather, they simply gained sentience and decided that they cared more about hunting down and punishing what they saw as evil than enforcing justice. And because they were of one mind, not a single one of the Manhunters disagreed with this.

In older continuities, the Guardians even forbade the Green Lanterns from fraternizing with each other to prevent even a hint of that same sort of conspiracy.

But as we see time and time again, the Green Lanterns stand up for what is right, even if it is against one of their own. Every time one of them abuses their power, even if they are considered the greatest of the Corps, their fellow Green Lanterns are the first to stand in their way. There is no "thin green line," no turning a blind eye to the misdeeds of their comrades

or even their masters.

Calling these guys "space cops" is honestly an insult. The Green Lanterns swear an oath to never let evil escape their sight, and they damn well mean it, even if that evil is within their own ranks or from their leadership. Hell, in most continuities they don't even get paid for the work they do. They're literally volunteers who are willing to and regularly make the ultimate sacrifice for others.

This is why the Green Lantern Corps is respected across the universe. For all their flaws and failures, they have the courage and will to keep themselves accountable when others would not.

[deusvervewrites]

Thinking some more about the Luminary timeline. Accidentally went apeshit. Guys help this was supposed to be like two paragraphs and it's now almost 1,000 words

Curious spends several months early on during Midoriya's time at Aldera getting closer to the Midoriya family. At this time, she fully believes that everyone should be able to use their Quirk whenever and however they wish, and the people should work diligently each day to forge their bodies and souls for the sake of living (direct quote from the manga).

Izuku, however, believes that saving people is the coolest thing someone can do, and that Heroes should make other people feel safe. Not only that, he is helping raise up others instead of using his natural strength as an excuse to be superior. And it's working. His friends are getting stronger. People who canonically had no chance at UA suddenly have that opportunity in this AU. And that would be extremely surreal to her.

This would be the first real crack in her beliefs. Yes, they are working hard and forging their bodies and whatever, but they're doing it together because they're friends, and with the goal of helping even more people. Like a chain of connections or perhaps a torch being passed on. She gets curious. What if the MLA did something like that? Proper, collaborative training clearly gets results. So she investigates and is immediately stonewalled by people like Geten and how she was very recently focusing entirely on personal power growth. But when she looks closer... they didn't grow as well as the Aldera kids are now. And none of them want to listen to her talk about it.

So by about halfway through Izuku's second year at Aldera, Kizuki is now heavily crushing on Inko, and starting to have doubts about the MLA's training programs. Inko invites her out, she accepts.

She spends the second half of that school year looking more into Aldera as a microcosm of the MLA itself and is quickly alarmed. Many of the Aldera Squad used to be written off as low-tier fodder, the teachers don't give a shit how the students act, her personal interview with Bakugo reveals he has zero self-worth. It's a mess. By January or February, not long until the end of the school year, she brings this up to Re-Destro and he brushes her off. "The strong will rise to the top and the weak won't. It's tragic but that is their place."

Again, Kizuku investigates the MLA and again finds it filled with people like Geten. Their "army" has no camaraderie. Even she used to once think of their forces as walking bombs for her Quirk--though she probably never actually did that because the MLA didn't fight anyone yet. Kizuki takes solace in the words of Destro's book, but during a meeting, when she quotes the book directly, Re-Destro claims those lessons are now too soft for the reality they face. Curious never recovers from that.

It's now been over a year since she met the Midoriyas. Her dates with Inko are going strong. Izuku has never once compromised his ideals, and his friends are rapidly improving alongside him. She bets they're already better than most MLA recruits. And she's worried. Aldera is a shitshow, her fellow leaders see this as not only acceptable, but desirable, and she hasn't been able to publish anything because of it.

As the months drag by, she starts to feel guilt about the things she's said and done in the MLA, seeing how Izuku and his friends have been directly impacted. What she could brush off as necessary before, suddenly seems wasteful. Is this really the kind of living that the MLA strives for each day? A place where none of their forces care about each other and the leaders think nothing of ordering the deaths of their own forces with nothing more than a passing mention of memorializing them? I wonder how many employees Re-Destro murdered over the years for insulting the book. Kizuki asks about someone she met briefly last time she was in Deika and learns Re-Destro crushed them over the same book he told her to her face was too weak.

Halfway through Izuku's third year at Aldera, she decides that she can't accept this MLA any longer. She may be the executive director of Shoowaysha, but that doesn't mean every employee there works for the MLA. She changes their guidelines to be more inline with what she's learned from Midoriya. It still looks like MLA rhetoric at a glance, but the new emphasis on cooperation and helping others up to your level aren't truly their beliefs. And, under a pseudonym, she writes an opinion piece about Quirks in the modern day.

Re-Destro is infuriated, demanding she find the author. Kizuki agrees not to run their stories again. She sends the next piece to another publication. This one is about how children aren't learning proper Quirk care in school, just that they can't ever use them. Simultaneously, Shoowaysha posts about something Re-Destro's been interested in for a long time: the lack of standardized Quirk testing in schools. The timing reinforces both of her pieces. The Bakugous' make small talk about them to a low-ranked Pro Hero client getting tailored for an upcoming gala.

Suddenly, concerned parents are taking a closer look at their kids' schools. Schools like Aldera. Re-Destro is furious that they've been undermined by accident. He wants this mystery author dead.

Izuku and the Aldera Crew are the last class to graduate Aldera. Kizuki confesses to Inko who she really is/was. Inko stands by her. Izuku is about to start UA, the MLA are scrambling for damage control on their recruitment centers, and Kizuki has landed herself in hot water with Re-Destro for not preventing this. She, meanwhile, is trying to clean house internally via her articles without getting caught so that the MLA can become what she thinks it should be.

[panimoonchild]

Life goes on for the world, but for Ukrainians, it never will be the same

Farewell to Taras Onyskiv. Azov. The son of a Hero is presented with the flag of Ukraine, the country for which his father died. Glory to Heroes🇺🇦

There is nothing fair about war. We have to remind ourselves of this too often, especially when young people die.

As today, when a medic who started his career in the ranks of the Hospitallers, 21-year-old Oleksandr Kucheriavenko, call sign "Kuzma", died while performing a mission.

Died saving others. According to the battalion's press service, Kucheryavenko had recently mobilized to the Defense Forces.

"A man with an incredibly keen sense of justice. A professional who has worked at all levels of pre-hospital care. An idealist who was always where he had to be. A hospitalist to whom more than one Ukrainian soldier owes his life. A man his mother and bride were proud of and loved. A comrade-in-arms whom we miss.

He lived, loved, and fought. He died saving the lives of others. We will never be able to comprehend this incredible loss for Ukraine, the Battalion, his fellow L20 crewmates, and family," - this is how Oleksandr's brothers and sisters-in-arms, who together evacuated wounded soldiers in 2023 and 2024 as part of the L20 Hospitaller crew, remember him. "Young, hot-tempered, he was one of those who found his calling early on. And he followed it to the end, despite fatigue, pain, and loss," emphasized Yana Zinkevych.

Oleksandr Kucheryavenko died on May 14, 2024, while providing aid to the wounded.

"The Hospitallers urge to support his family, who will have a hard time without their son and loved one.

Cards to help the family:

Mono - 4441 1144 2069 5403 Kucheryavenko Lesya (mother)

Mono - 4441 1111 3547 1013 "Privatbank - 4149 4390 4847 6521 Valeria (bride)

Second brother died in the war @ maryzalipa. You can support the family of the fallen defender here

I'll show you handsome Mykola, now I can. He's in Sweden on a psychological rehabilitation program for combat medics.

I opened a bank account (in my mother's monobank) for those who want to help our family.

The worst thing is that my mother is crying now and saying, "We asked you to stay, but we couldn't save one of them, even if you had." And, of course, she is right. Mykola had the right to demobilize after Pasha's death, but he didn't want to.

These losses cannot be accepted. It is indeed a black spring for Ukraine. Don't be indifferent. Make Russia pay. Please hear our cry out to the world, keep spreading our voices, and donate to our army and combat medics (savelife.in.ua, prytulafoundation.org, Serhii Sternenko, hospitallers.life, ptahy.vidchui.org, and u24.gov.ua).