Operation Legacy AAR

Between the hours of 0500 and 0900 on 20190420 EST, Operation Legacy was successfully completed.

GORUCK and the Travis Manion Foundation teamed up and put forth a challenge to the GORUCK Ruck Clubs to carry out service projects in honor of Fallen Heroes. The standards were to have at least 5 members in a team, ruck a few miles, complete a service project of any size, and tag it all using social media.

I started planning as soon as I got the first email on 20 March. I knew I could get 5 to do something but, I wanted it bigger. I saw a post from Carolina's Kids that was shared by Krispy Kreme that showed empty shelves. That tugged at my heart. I had found our objective.
I started posting information once or twice a day on either GroupMe or Facebook. While thinking of who we could honor, I realized that there were names on the wall at my unit of 3 KIA i did not know. Anyone Hero would due but, it bothered me that i didn't thier sacrifice. Names easily forgotten.

By the first deadline on 01 April I had 25 registered. I was excited. My standard for this event was going to be fill a ruck with donations and ruck that as the weight. Even that amount would have helped our objective.

Judge Judy started talking up the donation drive for the AO's to support. That surprised me. He hadn't even registered. Oliver Segars started collecting money donations towards a pallet of canned goods. I knew then my standards had to change.

Fox and Arrow was my main focus. But, other F3 Hartsville PAX were making a huge dent on this objective with thier own donations towards the TMF, the AO bucket collection, and the pallet.
39 donations were pledged on our TMF link which totaled to $425. The money towards the pallet actually became 2 pallets. The total weight of the food from the AO's, rucks, and pallets came to around 2200lbs. Wow!

The actual event had a welcome party, a tactical movement with 3 improvised litters, PT sessions, and time hacks. I even involved the regular Convergence crowd. As much as i like sharing about those 4 hours, it goes against my principles of Silence, Violence, and Silence i use for my Operations.

I want to focus on the impact of this event. Andrea Pulling told me this was very touching to her. Spring Break is a rough time for these kids. We were able to plus them up from that need and secure enough food for the rest of the school year. That's a job well done and some bellies filled. Thank you all for helping and donating to this event.

I use the word "I" a lot in this BB. It was not me, it was Him. I have felt the hand of God throughout this project. I am glad God saw fit to have me lead this. And I am grateful for everyone who stood in this gap with me.

Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart. And, may God continue to bless you.

Aye!
KLINGER

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F3 Hartsville Presents the 4th Edition of The Fox #CSAUP

B.L.U.F. – It’s hard. You’ll get better. Sign up HERE

It’s baaaack!

Mark your calendars now! Back for the fourth consecutive year on Saturday May 11th the PAX of F3 Hartsville will host the #CSAUP that F3 Nation will be talking about the rest of the year…The Fox!

You’ve heard of The Goat and The Mule and some little fun run called The Yeti…well The Fox eats Goats, Mules and Yetis for breakfast!  That’s probably not true but after cementing The Fox into the #CSAUP Hall Of Fame last year, YHC and team have raised the bar yet again. Through each stage of planning we have erred on the side of “choosing the hard thing”. You’d think we would be experienced by now…but no, we still don’t exactly know what we’re doing so it will definitely be Completely Stupid and Utterly Pointless.

What is The Fox?

This is a team event.  Put your three or four man team together considering speed, strength and endurance will be equally relied upon in this challenge. Don’t have a team? That’s fine, sign up anyway and we will put you on a team!  We will classify teams in four groups and each group will have a staggered start time; Gazelles(6-8 min/mile 10K pace), Thoroughbreds(8-10 min/mile 10K pace), Clydesdales(10+ min/mile 10K pace) & Mules(If you plan to RUCK the event. Minimum weight requirement is 30 lbs).  The course is approximately 11-13 miles (ish) around town hitting at least 5 AO’s full of pain with some extra pain stations built in along the way.  We will start and end at Prestwood Country Club (because we’re classy like that, and Tater Salad is on the board) and the course will be both on and off pavement (WAY off pavement at times).

The Fox 2nd F

Bowtie is in charge of the entertainment this year.  His favorite types of music are death metal and Mexican mariachi so who knows what will happen.  No matter the band, immediately following the event there will be some solid Second F at the club with beer & food provided (bring your own lawn chair). This is really what makes the event worth while, sharing war stories from the event with your brothers, new and old alike. Winners for each class will be announced during this time so be sure to stick around.  I hear there may even be prizes! 

The Fox 2.0 Race

Be sure to bring the whole family! We will have a Fox 2.0 course set up for the young guns (boys and girls)! Race will start at 11:15.  Course will be approximately 2 miles with several “obstacles”. We will put 2.0’s on teams based on age or they can form their own team if preferred (sign them up as any racing class…it doesn’t matter) and each team will be accompanied by an adult (certainly your M or yourself are welcome to run as well). You don’t want to miss out on this part! T-shirts will be given to all who register!

The Why

Why give 3-4 hours of your Saturday to such a pointless and stupid event?  Because it’s actually the opposite of that.  You will push yourself to new heights and relish in the victory with your brothers of completing an event as tough as this!  And…because it’s not about you.  It’s about the guy who will be on your team that needs you there so that he can reach the next level.  Don’t let him down!

Who Are The Event Q’s?

Bow Tie, Ground Blind and Divac

Is It Ruck Friendly?

Heck yea!  We can’t promise there won’t be other heavy things to lift but this will be great training for anyone preparing for a GoRuck challenge.

What Kind Of Equipment Do I need?

Flippers, goggles, one of those triathlon unitard things….No really, normal workout gear should suffice.  I would recommend some high socks to protect your shins.  Remember, it’s both on and off pavement.

How Long Will This Take?

We’re not sure.  I would budget for AT LEAST 2.5 hours for the Gazelles (and that will be smoking it!)  Wheels up at 0630 for ruckers and we hope all will be enjoying some Second F by 1100.

What Does It Cost?

Nothing, zero, zilch, nada to participate.  BUT…it does cost to put the event on.  Last year we broke even, almost to the dollar! This year we are donating anything above cost to Cypress Adventures.  If there were a youth form of F3 & FIA, this would be it!  These kids are learning about leadership and doing most if it through experiences outside (sound familiar?)  (Website here)  So if you are so inclined please send a donation (in the amount of your choice, even $5 helps!) via PayPal to blake_faucette@yahoo.com  Please use “friends and family” method and indicate “The Fox” in the comments section.  All registrants (including 2.0’s) will get an event T-shirt.

Who Is Invited?

All men 18+.  All of F3 Nation is invited and this could be a good chance to get some FNG’s, if they like a challenge.

Do We Need Volunteers?

Yes. We will need volunteers for pain stations, hydration stations, photography, chase car and probably more that we haven’t thought of.  If you or your M or 2.0 would be willing to volunteer, please contact one of the Q’s, indicated in the comment section at the end of the post, or sign up here.

What Is The Route?

Now that would spoil all the fun…

Where Do I Sign Up?

Please sign up here.  Sign up as an individual or a team.  If you know your team make sure that each member includes the SAME team name.  If you sign up without a team we will group individuals together the best we can.

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6 Week Weight Loss Challenge – Spring 2019

Need to lose some weight but don’t have accountability? Love competition and winning money? Here's your chance. If you're like me and have been wanting to drop a few pounds, there's absolutely no reason for you to say no to this challenge.

What: It's simple. $20 buy in. Whoever loses the highest percentage of weight in 6 weeks wins the pot.

When: 04/11/2019 - 05/23/2019

Where: You must bring your cash to me on April 11th and we will all weigh in and out on the same scale that I provide. No exceptions. There will be three opportunities on the weigh-in and weigh-out days.

  • 5:00am @ The Clinic (This will be quick so you can make it back to your AO)
  • 5:15pm @ Revolution
  • 6:45pm @ Mac's for Happy Hour

Details: Yes, there will be a chat and you will be added at weigh in. Yes, it will be gone when this challenge is over. You can direct your questions to the chat or me directly. If you fail to weigh in or out on the same day, you forfeit your chance at winning and it will go the the next in line.

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Operation Legacy Spring 2019: Hartsville, SC/GORUCK DONATION Info

 

Alright PAX,

We had 25 brave souls sign up for this event.  We have 1 female, 1 F3 Florence PAX, and 2 dudes I do not know attending this craziness.  They will probably quit life after 4 hours with me.  But, that does not include everyone that has donated to this cause.  There are a couple of Unsung Heroes out there.  To The Travis Manion Foundation you have donated $425.  That is awesome!  Now comes the actual event.

I emailed everyone who has registered more details about the event.  The only weight requirement in the bags is whatever donations they can fit inside it.  So if it is all canned spaghetti, that is roughly 20#.  This is your chance to Blue Falcon the Hell out of these 25 goons.  Judge Judy dropped off blue buckets with each AOQ to be filled up with donations.  That will help bring some pain but, we are also looking at getting a pallet of goods too.  If you want to donate to that and make nightmares come true, the information is posted below.  Yes, this is the fun part.

We are currently at $180 towards this pallet.  That's 300 cans.  So, even a $5 donation helps make this event super special for the registered.  And if not to bring pain to your fellow man, think about this.  There are probably children that live next to you that struggle with hunger and you wouldn't know it.  those little faces may smile at you in Church, at the grocery store, and when you are picking your 2.0's up from school.

I thank everyone that has supported this so far from the bottom of my heart.  Now, let's go the second mile.

Hit me or any of the ruckers up if, you want to drop items off.  Other than that,  the 19th and 0445 on the 20th is when we look to collect the donations.

Again, thank you very much.

Osegars@gmail.com is PayPal
Oliver Segars is venmo

"If not me, then who?"
Klinger

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HC for Waterbug

Weather: Who cares?

F3Hartsville took a gut punch this past weekend. One of our Redwoods, a warrior, known and respected by all, ran his last mile. His finish line came up before any of us expected it to. In retrospect, I can't think of a more fitting way for Waterbug to pass away. He was running with a couple of fellow pax, both of whom came into F3 out of shape and needing encouragement to step up as leaders of men. Both Paula Dean and Skinny Pete have been transformed by their participation in F3 in general and by their relationship with Waterbug specifically. The light shines brightest when the night is darkest.

To honor Waterbug's legacy, everyone agreed that this special Tuesday Convergence should feature some classic Waterbug tortures.

LoveBug led us out.

All pax gathered up and planked in a moment of silence around the flag.

SSH IC x 20

Reach Thrus IC x 20

GroundBlind took over.

Count off in 4's. Everybody got it right until some guy from Revo showed up late and said "FIVE!" We have to give Revo pax a pass, because they chose to stay up from last night's HH and walked over from Mac's. #Respect.

Station 1

Spartan bucket carry and spear throw. Lawn darts in the dark with a flashy hula-hoop while pax run close by is a thing. This ain't no place for sissies. Speaking of sissies, YHC pulled up lame with a busted groin thanks to whuppin' Southern Belle's rump in the NFL Combine queue. The bucket finished YHC off. Judge Judy did my burpees.

Station 2

March Madness. WB was renowned for his work with balls. He loved his balls, especially sharing them with other pax. Only in F3 would that sentence be OK.

10 Merkins right hand on ball

5 Bball burpees/10 leg raises with ball

10 Merkins left hand on ball

5 Bball burpees/10 leg raises with ball

10 Diamond merkins on ball

5 Bball burpees/10 leg raises with ball

10 Elf on the shelf to the right/10 to the left

5 Bball burpees/10 leg raises with ball

10 Squat thrusters with the ball

5 Bball burpees/10 leg raises with ball

Station 3

Plank-o-rama

Waterbug was known for his yoga affinity. Many new pax would snicker until they started doing the workout.

High plank

Floyd Mayweathers (from plank position, reach through and punch, IC)

Catalina wine mixers IC

Superman/canoe

Low plank

Various planks till time is called

Station 4

12 Days of Christmas, Waterbug Style

It's not the loud talkers that you need to fear. Eisenhower, Barfly and Judge Judy are harmless. It's the quiet pax that scare me. Waterbug sat up late every night thinking of new ways to punish pax. Evidently Christmas time was especially hard for Waterbug, as he chose to take out all his anger and frustration from growing up in Goldilock's shadow on the poor innocent pax who showed up for 12 Days of Christmas.

Perform Day 1 and run to cones and back.

Perform Day 2, then day 1 and run to cones and back.

Repeat and keep adding another day until you get to Day 12, Day 11, etc. etc.

1 x Diamond Merkin

2 x Jump Lunges (2 ct)

3 x Plyo or Hand release merkin

4 x Carolina Dry dock

5 x Burpees

6 x Plank Jacks

7 x Jump Squats

8 x Inchworms

9 x Ranger Merkins

10 x Mountain climbers (2 ct)

11 x Rollups

12 x Groiners

 

All pax gathered back up around the flag. YHC, aka Blue Falcon, requested a round of Banjo Bear Crawl, but the pax beat me down. Thunderbird came into the center and led the pax in some Jane Fonda/Richard Simmons inspired plank leg thrust twist thingy. Audit pretty much just laid on his side and tried to look like Hugh Hefner. Not sure why he would do that in front of a bunch of men. Judgement Free Zone.

Count-off

All pax counted off. Revo dudes evidently were fully awake as we got it right all the way around the circle.

Name-O-Rama

In a beautiful display of solidarity, memory and respect, each pax said, "Farrell Talbert. 45. Waterbug" one at a time. It took a while, because we had so many pax, which made it even more powerful. Waterbug's name resonated across the field. His name will not be forgotten. His legacy is written on our lives.

Announcements

1pm Visitation at the Lakeview Baptist Church Family Life Center (Gym)

2pm Funeral service. All pax are requested by Waterbug's M to sit together and wear an F3 armband.

Graveside memorial with F3 participation. Details to follow

5:30pm Revolution Waterbug Q

BOM and Devo by Divac

One of Waterbug's last Q's was a Convergence Christmas Q, where he opened up about his battle with depression. It was tough for him to get through it, but he did it. The pax stepped up and showed great support for him. Waterbug was excellent at all things, including his Devo's.

Transparency vs. Vulnerability

I thought about telling a highlight reel of stories of Waterbug.  But there have been a lot of stories shared already and I know later today and in the days and weeks to come more and more will be told.  All of these stories are great and true.  But the gloom is meant to get better, to sharpen each other.  That’s what Waterbug did every chance he had so that’s what we’ll do this morning.

A few weeks ago, at the anniversary convergence we spoke about living more out of our true selves.  In the COT we regularly see brothers be transparent.  This is something few men in our society do.  Few men get up in front of others and share what is going on in their lives.  But guys, I’m here to tell you it’s not enough. What we need is not transparency but vulnerability.

"Transparency" means, by definition, the ability to see through something. So when someone's being transparent with you, they're letting you see into their lives. They'll let you know what's going on and even inform you about how they've been feeling. But while people who are transparent will share openly, they do so in a self-conscious, controlled way. In other words, they're presenting a processed, polished version of themselves.

"Vulnerability" though is a little different. When someone's being vulnerable, they're making themselves susceptible to the judgment of others. Vulnerability means they don't just let you know what's going on in their lives - they let you actually see how everything is affecting them. This involves them letting their guard down and relinquishing control. In other words, they're presenting an unprocessed, unpolished version of themselves.

The tricky thing about "transparency" is that it makes us think we know a person. After all, they're opening and sharing about themselves. But that's the thing - people who are only transparent tend to only share about themselves. We know a lot of facts about them, but we don't really know them.

For example, if a friend told me that he lost his job, I'd feel sad and hope he finds a new one soon. However, if he told me he lost his job and now he feels completely lost - I'd feel strangely closer with him. Why? Well when someone loses their job, that tells me about his circumstances. But when he tells me how he's handling his circumstances, that tells me a lot about him.

And that's why it's probably difficult for us to be vulnerable with others because when doing so, we're letting people get to know the real us. And we don't want people to know the real us because if they do, then they now have the power to reject us. And we don't want that. That's why it's easier to put people at arms-length and tell them just enough so that they don't have to really know us.

We can’t be vulnerable with everyone.  We can’t be vulnerable with our entire AO.  We can be transparent, and that’s a good thing.  But the hard thing, which is what we do in F3, is intentionally cultivating those relationships with a few people where we can be vulnerable.

We love you Waterbug.

 

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It Will Be a Shuckin’ Good Time!

3/30/19 – F3 Hartsville 4 Year Anniversary Shindig

 

Location: Last Rites’ House

Come one, come all!  Those who attended last year remember fellowship and Stallion winning not one but two awards.  Those of you who weren’t a part of this crazy thing we call F3 Hartsville last year, come get some great 2nd F with us this year.

What:

A party for all of F3 Hartsville AND the families of F3 Hartsville

This year we are back to shuckin’ oysters!  We will have other stuff to eat as long as you bring it (that means bring an appetizer to share).  Also, we will be taking monetary donations to apply to service projects in our community (3rdF).  That’s what F3 is all about!

Awards.  I did mention awards.  Divac will be sending out ballots shortly for your voting pleasure.  Don’t feel too bad if you don’t win one.  I know it’s hard for some, but be a man about it.  Did I mention Stallion won two last year?  Don’t let that happen again.

When:

Saturday, March 30 6:00pm. Come early to help set up if you can.

Where:

1121 Pine Lake Drive, Hartsville

How:

RSVP here by 3/23: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1MooOZrey4WZZp-WGqrPBDRKnifmQMltl_2lPRIVgkAc/edit?usp=sharing  so we can know how many oysters to buy

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Pearl Harbor – 4 Corners for Ships

Conditions:  34F and clear, it was dark too

Commentary:  It’s been a while since YHC had posted for a Curahee beatdown and it had been a while since a Curahaee Ruck-workout had been held.  Seeing that Dec 7th landed on a Curahee day, YHC felt that this may be a good time to get back into the suck of things and also honor the fallen of Pearl Harbor.  ==>  9 Faithful Pax took the DRP and posted - TWO Shovel Flags were planted in the gloom!

Disclaimer:  Not a pro / workout at own risk / modify if necessary / get better

Warm Up

  1. SSH X 15 IC
  2. Monkey Humpers IC X 24 (2,403 men lost in the attack)
  3. HR Merkins IC X 17 (169 aircraft destroyed)
  4. Squats IC X 24
  5. Ruck Curls IC X 17
  6. Ruck Overhead Presses – single count X 24
  7. 6 Burpees (6 Ships sunk)

The Thang: - we set up a four corners format spanning half the field.

4 min sets of 6 AMRAPs dedicated to the ships lost:  (We mostly ended up trying to chase Groundblind around the field...)

  • USS Arizona BB-39 – total loss

Run length of the field and Bear Crawl across the field / 39 Merkins at each corner

  • USS Oklahoma BB-37 – total loss

Run to long cones and Crab walk to short cones / 37 squats

  • USS California BB-44

Run length of the field and Lunge walk across the field / 44 Dips at a bench at each corner

  • USS West Virginia BB-48

Run length of field and Crawl Bears across the field / 48 LBCs at each corner

  • USS Utah BB-31 / AG-16 – total loss

Mosey to corner / 31 Overhead press at each corner

  • USS Oglala CM-4

Mosey to each corner / 40 Ruck Curls at each corner

Almost outa time - but we gotta have some Mary:

MOM

  1. Flutter Kicks X 25 IC
  2. Sit Ups X 37 single count
  3. Pickle Pounders X 20 IC
  4. Leg Lifts X 16 single count

Devo:

Pearl Harbor Facts

  • 180 Japanese aircraft – two waves
  • Attack lasted two hours
  • Tora-Tora-Tora means Tiger-Tiger-Tiger in Japanese
  • USS Arizona – 1,100 killed
  • 2,403 service members lost and 1,178 wounded
  • 6 US ships - sunk
    • USS Arizona – total loss – remains sunken
    • USS Oklahoma – total loss
    • USS California
    • USS West Virginia
    • USS Utah – total loss
    • USS Oglala
  • 169 aircraft destroyed
  • Next day – Japanese attacked Guam and Wake Island and Philippines
  • Yamamoto was killed in 1943 – shot down over Solomon Islands

Announcements

  1. Christmas Gifts for families – most are now taken but Pax are encouraged to team up with whomever has stepped up to help out. Mix-allot and Wall-E are also collecting money for gift cards for food.
  2. Work Day at North Hartsville Planned for Sat Dec 8th – 10 AM
  3. Two Pax heading to Marion tomorrow to Q a workout – anyone is invited to go.

Prayer led by Goldilocks – special intentions for Little Jack’s parents, Last Rites and his father (heart attack), prayers for Dylan Adams as he receives further chemo and prepares for surgery

Green Acres has been reaching out to some Pax who no longer post and is learning that some are suffering or struggling.  He encouraged us all to reach out, listen and support those pax in need.

Pledge of Allegiance

Moleskin

Ruck work outs are tough for YHC, the extra weight provides a new dimension of stress and strain.  Often a number of reps which may sound easy become very difficult when carrying a ruck.  YHC overestimated what we could accomplish in the gloom this morning.

While a 45 min ruck beatdown brings the suck, it doesn’t compare to 2 hrs of dive bombing, torpedoes and gun strafing from Japanese attack plans on surprised men early on weekend morning.   All pax eagerly took on the challenges today as we thought about those lost at Pearl Harbor, Dec 7th, 1941.

Eisenhower stepped up to Q next week.  He seemed encouraged by the Pickle Pounders...

Great work by all.

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Jax 50 Mile Star Course

Once upon a time, four men had a dream of walking 50 miles. Little did they know, their dream would soon become a nightmare. These men went by the names: Skinny Pete, Klinger, Paperboy and Linus (YHC). This is their story.

I received text from Klinger one random day in June “Hey brother, 50-mile Star Course Jacksonville, FL. You in?.... I don’t want any pussies on this trip.” I remember not wanting to ruck 50 miles, but the thought of not being considered a pussy in the eyes of one of F3 Hartsville’s most distinguished, bad-asses outweighed all reservations.

17:00 Friday, November 9th our team, “The Bookbag Bandits,” arrived in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. It was pouring down rain and nervous anticipation was setting in. The two pre-race objectives we had were to find food and buy a street map. We ate at Castillo de Mexico, “high protein and high carbs” we said, “it won’t hurt our stomachs” we said. FL mexican cuisine will not hold a candle to SC mexican cuisine unless you are comparing gas combustibility by farting on said candle. FL would win. After planting seeds of bowel destruction, we began the search for a street map. Four gas stations later, we turned up empty. We found our map at Barnes and Nobles. We all agreed this was the last paper map on the planet.

20:00 we report to GoRuck HQ. The first thing we noticed was there were a lot of people, around 250. Klinger became very excited and drooled at the mouth. The more people the more kills was his thought. Skinny Pete and I started wondering what we got ourselves into. Judging the competition on general physique alone we were in over our heads.

20:30 Cadre Moka Mike gathered the crowd with his booming voice and gave us our “hit list” and explained general rules. Moka Mike then asked one veteran from each branch of the military to come forward, along with first responders and a mother. Klinger represented the army in this ceremony, which YHC thought was an honor. Skinny Pete began to step forward to represent a mother, but Paperboy stopped him. He thought the cadre said mother f@#$er. The cadre play the national anthem and thanked all for their contribution for our country.

After the ceremony, we looked at our hit list. We had 14 waypoints to make, each of which was a park, monument or other notable structure. To prove we made each waypoint we had to post a group selfie on Instagram with a corresponding hashtag. “What’s instagram?” asked Paperboy, “What's a selfie?” asked Klinger, “What's a hashtag?” said Pete, “not to worry” said YHC “these things justify the existence of my generation.”  Paperboy and Skinny Pete began plotting out the course with the GPS while Klinger and YHC plotted with the map. After 30 seconds we decided the map was stupid and we were glad no one made them anymore.

2100 the the horn was blown and the clock started. We loaded our rucks and told our feet we were sorry for what was about to happen to them. The course laid out in a loop, so half the teams went south and the other half north. We were on the north route. We began working our way to the first waypoint. 400 yards out of HQ we stumbled upon a group of teams taking a selfie with a statue of a surfer, but this was not waypoint we were looking for. We were looking for the Jax Beach Pier, and this was not Jax Beach Pier. We should not check this waypoint off, yet. It’s 10 feet away and it will be closer on our way back. As you can see, 10 minutes in we were already outsmarting ourselves. Paperboy started as navigator, but quickly passed the duty on to YHC, which was the best move for the group seeing asYHV was the only one with the Navigator Patch.

The first 3 waypoints came easily. All were within a few miles of the start. waypoint 4 was an hour ruck away through some residential areas of Jax beach. Roughly 3 miles from the waypoint we met a group of 20 or 30 ruckers backtracking in our direction. They informed us that there was a gated community ahead and the security guard on duty was not allowing safe passage. The conservative approach was to back track 2 miles and circle around this private community. We overheard another team planning to dead reckon through the woods. This would cut miles off and put us ahead of the other teams. The ringleader of this outfit ended up being a GoRuck Cadre JC who was Klinger’s Cadre for his Heavy and a Recon Marine. Klinger felt confident in this man’s ability so we took the bet.

Another team from Tampa followed, who YHC called the Tampons. We “broke brush” for 200 yards until we were halted by an 8-foot chain link fence. While contemplating our options, we learned one member of JC’s team was the infamous 001; who was the first man to complete GoRuck Selection. He ended up being a halfwit who seemed light in his loafers. He insisted JC call Moka Mike to bring them a ladder. Paperboy decided that Selection must be pretty easy if this man did it and said he was HC for Selection. After Moka Mike side-buttoned 001’s call, we resorted to climbing the fence. Acting as one cohesive unit, we began passing rucks over and giving boost. YHC thought this was very impressive; three teams would work together, even though we were in competition. As that thought crossed my mind, the last of the Tampons was coming over the fence and I turned to see JC and 001 taking off on their own. Karma quickly caught up to them, because they were discovered by the HOA security. The Bookbag Bandits and the Tampons agreed to work together until we got out of this neighborhood.

Tripping over yard gnomes, patio furniture and dog shit, we stayed between the woods and the houses to remain covered (an area about 10 feet in width). This idea worked well until we came upon a house with a well lit back porch. Inside was an old couple watching Jeopardy. Paperboy wanted to ask if he could sit down for a bit and play along. I’m sure they could exchange hip replacement stories. Not able to keep off the street any longer, we decide that running down the sidewalk was our only way out. Paperboy reluctantly followed. We managed to make it to the exit before crossing paths with the rent-a-cop. For a moment we thought he was going to let us pass without comment, but he apparently had something he needed to get off his chest. This large, angry man informed us the definition of private property and the State of Florida's penalties for trespassing. There were a lot of things we wanted to say, but didn’t because our mothers taught us better.

From the amount of time it took to climb the fence juxtaposed with the 30 minute lecture from the HOA police, we probably gained 100 yards on everyone who went around. The next waypoint we found Moka Mike and other GoRuck staff. They were handing out oranges and bananas like a bunch of soccer moms; however, the gesture was appreciated. I bent over to tie my shoe next to Moka Mike’s minivan and looking me right in the face was Jason McCarthy's 4-legged friend, Monster. I have never seen a more apathetic animal in my entire life. I guess a bunch of dudes wearing heavy backpacks was getting old to him.

At this point team morale was at an all, time high. We had some bonus calories in our bellies, and being ahead of schedule had lots of things to talk about, such as: selection is a joke, Marine Recon is a joke, HOA rent-a-cops are a joke, Skinny Pete sucks at climbing fences, etc., etc. The miles went by fast and our competition was seen less and less, which can only mean we were moving faster than expected. We reached waypoint 7 around 0300, which was the welcome sign at UNF. We took 5 to rest our feet and backs and replenish electrolytes. Then, out of the darkness came JC and 001 and the Tampons. We learned that JC’s team was caught by the rent-a-cop, but they were given a ride on a golf cart. We offered some food to 001, which he declined. He explained they had a support vehicle on the way with supplies, and he only eats fruit smoothies while rucking. The fact we were ahead of them, even with this unfair advantage, speaks to how hard the Bookbag Bandits really were.

We had to backtrack 6 miles in order to reach the next waypoint, which really flattened our spirits and killed morale. Klinger and Paperboy began discussing Revelations, which was frightening. Klinger kept mentioning Thor and Odin. Someone needs to check which version of the Bible he reads. YHC discoverd that sleep rucking is possible. One minute YHC was at UNF, and then woke-up and had walked 4 miles. At the same time, Paperboy was talking my head off by telling me that when he grows up he wants to be a hardcore mountaineer such as YHC.

Around dawn we reached waypoint 8. We decided to take 10 minutes to change socks, refill our water and eat. Klinger also was having issues with Castillo de Mexico coming back for revenge. The next waypoint was 8 miles away straight down a road that paralleled the beach. We knew this was going to be the hardest part of the trip. It was 8 miles there and 8 miles back, all on the the same straight road. It was as we expected: long, hard miles. It took about 2.5 hours to reach the waypoint, which was a public beach access known as Mickler's Landing. Upon arrival we found discouraging news: there was no potable water. Being resourceful, Paperboy began making a small talk with a local soccer mom. She told us we all smell bad, but she had about 1.5 liters of water we could have. This was well received.

For YHC the 8 mile ruck back was a conflict between the mind and body. Mentally, I had a renewed spirit due to the thought we would be finished soon; however my body, particularly my feet, reported they had given me all they had. I walked on through the pain. Skinny Pete entered some sort of catatonic state where he didn’t respond to questions unless it was “do you need a rest?” Klinger and Paperboy walked ahead and finished their discussion about Ragnarok. YHC entertained himself my thinking of the beer waiting at the finish.

After hitting our last few waypoints including the surfer statue, we returned to GoRuck HQ. We were disappointed to learn that JC and the Tampons had beaten us by a few minutes, but we are also very satisfied to place 20 out of 82 teams. Our total time was 17 hours 36 minutes, which is a long time to be walking. We received our patches and had a few sips of beer before heading to the Hotel. How I made the 15 minute drive to the hotel is the greatest mystery to me. We are all pretty sure it was divine intervention.

The questioned that keeps getting asked is “would you do it again?”. It took me 3 days to finally admit I would. All told this was an awesome experience with a great group of guys, and most importantly we gave it our best.

The End,

Linus

 

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Pre-Blast – North Hartsville Elementary Service Project

Pre-Blast – 2018 Service Project – F3 Hartsville

B.L.U.F. (Bottom Line Up Front) – We are doing a service project. Sign up below: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1a78rHgsDLRFlsCUb7DmUs8wyb7PGFX7HjSLB5K1eGAQ/edit?usp=sharing

Calling all PAX of F3 Hartsville! You are cordially invited to participate in a clean-up project at North Hartsville Elementary School on Saturday, December 8, 2018.  The schoolyard has served F3 well for several years as home of the Farsight AO and as one of the pain stations during the annual Fox.  Blood, sweat and tears have been left on those grounds in efforts to make ourselves and our fellow PAX better. Now we have an opportunity to pour some of that sweat into work that will make the schoolyard a better and safer place for the kids of NHE.

What is the project?

NHE has a large courtyard area that students are currently restricted from using because it is unsafe. The vision of Kristi Austin, Principal of NHE, is to turn the courtyard into a nice grassy area that is safe and easy to maintain.

The area currently has a fair amount of limbs and other organic debris that needs to be hauled away.  Additionally, there are concrete benches and tables that need to be removed as well as a multitude of bricks and paving stones.

A set of metal risers/bleachers needs to be taken apart and hauled away as well as some smaller wooden structures.

Lastly, some general landscaping work is needed, such as pruning branches and trimming hedges.

When is it?

We will start at 9:00 am on Saturday, December 8th.  This will give you a chance to attend Convergence and then go home to get your tools and or your 2.0’s.

If you are attending the Christmas parade that morning, no problem. Please come after the parade.

Who can participate?

All PAX of F3 Hartsville are invited, as well as their M’s and 2.0’s.  Bring friends along as well!  This is a big area with plenty of room for a multitude of workers.

This is a great opportunity for your high school student to pick up some community service hours!

Why should I do it?

Because we are leaders in our community and we have an opportunity to help fill a need that is not being met!  It is also a great fellowship opportunity. After all, that is what the 2nd F of F3 is all about!

Who are the Q’s?

Divac & Windows

What can I bring?

We will need the following items:

  • Wheelbarrows
  • Saw or Torch to cut metal
  • Hedge trimmers
  • Rakes
  • Shovels/Spades
  • Leaf Blower
  • Trash Bags
  • Pick-up trucks
  • Trailer (to haul pavers, concrete, yard waste, et al. to the dump)
  • Work gloves

How Long?

We’ll work till early afternoon (lunch and drinks will be provided!), but you are encouraged to come for however long you can.  This project will take more than one day to complete, so we expect to schedule a second work day at a later time.

We want the work we do on the 8th to noticeably improve the appearance of the site and to eliminate the areas posing the greatest safety risk to the children.

What next?

Sign up HERE 

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Full Frontal Attack

Todays workout was in honor of Josh aka Rooney, one of the Cadre that helped lead the Goruck HTL in Savannah in March.  It was intended for rucks but we improvised.

 

Warmup

Ruck up if you got one.  Mosey to brick pile and grab a coupon if you don’t have a ruck.

The Main THANG

In honor of Cadre Rooney WOD

Start with 400 m coupon/ruck carry (2 laps around islands) then:

5 rounds of the following (but we only had time for 3+)

  • 75 mtn climbers (4 count) (crowd pleaser!!)
  • 75 air squats (single count)
  • 200 m coupon carry (1 lap around islands)
  • 75 flutter kicks (4 count)
  • 75 overhead claps (single count)

Finish with a 400 m coupon carry (2 laps around islands)

Mary-

We did some stuff

Announcements

Goruck Star Course—Congrats! to Skinny Pete, Paperboy, Klinger, Linus

Moleskin

Recently through FB, I discovered that Cadre Josh had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.  A few weeks ago, I planned a trip to Milwaukee with my 13 year old to watch the Dodgers/Brewers in the NLCS.  Knowing that Josh was from Wisconsin and a huge sports fan, I reached out to him to see if he was planning to be at the game.  He replied immediately and said that he would be there and he gave me pointers on where to eat and what to see while we were in town.  He also agreed to meet my son and I during the game.  We talked for a few minutes and he was in good spirits despite his diagnosis. He has 2 small boys and I couldn’t help but ache for him knowing that he was going to have to endure cancer treatments and not be able to spend as much time with his boys.  His attitude is what struck me the most.  He said he had always been underestimated and never was the smartest or talented.  But he always had a positive attitude and never let the opinions of others define him.

From a recent FB post he quotes his Ranger creed by “going full frontal attack on this enemy” and stating “Surrender is not a Ranger word” and “I will shoulder more than my share of the task, 100% and then some!”  His story reminds me of one of my favorite verses from Romans 5:3-4.

“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope”

Aye!

Groundblind

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