Author Archives: Douglas R. Satterfield
[February 7, 2022] This is what I wrote to my son the day after Iraqi’s first democratic election: “It appears that the Iraqi elections were a complete success by any measure.” The Iraqis defied the terrorists; women, in particular, voted overwhelmingly. The elections were more than a move toward democracy but a move toward a civilized, modern society.… Read More »
[February 6, 2022] I didn’t know it at the time, but I grew up privileged. As a young boy, my privilege was being in the company of combat veterans from World War II and the Korean War. They were everywhere; being salesmen, pumping gas, farming, raising dairy cows,1 all holding down ordinary jobs you could find in a… Read More »
[February 5, 2022] We hear, on occasion, of heroic deeds of our military personnel; those who put their lives on the line for their buddies in a display of unbelievable courage. We need heroes like that, and for reasons of necessity, we do indeed love our heroes. But, there are also many more stories of ordinary troops who,… Read More »
[February 4, 2022] I’m a little late getting around to this article, much to my embarrassment. I like to recognize courage immediately when I see it. Well, 30 lashes and to the dog house for me. It takes a lot of abuse before Canadians, a very laid-back population, get up enough drive to take on their government, but… Read More »
[February 3, 2022] A peek into Chapter 2 of my book, Our Longest Year in Iraq. I thought this might spark some ideas about the leadership at the grunt level. I called it our turn in the “box” – the box was the Iraq battlefield. Thanks for reading it: The greatest foe on the battlefield is fear; it… Read More »
[February 1, 2022] From 2003 until sometime in 2008, the highway between the Baghdad Airport and the Green Zone was the most dangerous road in the world. More deaths occurred along this main supply route, called Route Irish than any other stretch of road anywhere. I discuss Route Irish in my book, Our Longest Year in Iraq. My… Read More »
[January 31, 2022] For years now, I’ve been asked to give advice to young men and women about how to live a successful life. I’m humbled by their requests but like all people, I have a biased view. Now, I am asking my readers to please give me their input. What do you think is important to have… Read More »
[January 28, 2022] You advance the human spirit when telling a story. Telling stories of heroes is a skill that is a must-have. Stores have been told since humans walked in the wild long long ago. Stories help us know who we are and where we are going. One such story has long been part of my family’s… Read More »
[January 27, 2022] If you’re a guy, you’ve heard this before. One of your good buddies is about to do something “exciting” and probably very stupid. The first time I remember it being said was by my childhood friend, Wilson. “Hey, watch this!” as he jumped about 20 feet off an old trestle railroad bridge. We were about… Read More »
[January 26, 2022] For those young adults interested in making themselves a better person, getting fulfillment from life, or making a difference in the world, today is the right time for you. You are beginning your journey into adulthood; congratulations. The fact that you are reading this article is testimony to your desire to be better than you… Read More »