Posted on Feb 13, 2020
US Admiral Hopes Philippine Security Pact Can Still Be Saved
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Philippines
Security
Posted 5 y ago
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I do worry this is a green light for ISIS to gain another foothold in the PI. With the Philippine government, these types of issue are usually about money.
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MAJ Ken Landgren
CMSgt (Join to see) - I grew up around Clark. 72-84. What a blast as we got to go to bars when we became Freshmen in High School. I wrote a story about exploring in the Philippines if you are interested.
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MAJ Ken Landgren
Growing up in the Philippines: I am curious about your fond memories of the PI. What made your heart sing and made you feel groovy? I was fortunate to be a dependent at the time with a father who enjoyed exploring the country. One time we stayed at the Aquino's unoccupied playboy mansion in the middle the jungle. It was really cool to drive into jungle roads, dry river beds, and grass lands.
I recall at the age of ten going on a cruise and visiting several islands and cities with my father. We went to Mindanao, Cebu, and Palawan. Off the coast of Palawan we rode in dugout canoe for an hour. I was lost in time as we passed islands of pink, white, and black beaches surrounded by the bluest clear water in the world. Our destination was a small magical island with white sand and coconut trees. We were alone. We were back in time and time did not mean anything. We were surrounded by infinite and timeless beauty.
The sun was bright and hot; and a light wind was relegated to gently stirring the hot air. We went snorkeling. The island was full of coconut trees and surrounded by a kaleidoscope of bright tropical fish in the water. Table top coral, like giant mushrooms, welcomed us. I had the opportunity to see a large bed of giant clams that were a couple feet wide. The island had a deep large hole off the beach. It was dark and deep enough to hide a small ship at the bottom while sharks swam overhead. I assumed maybe it was sunk in WWII? What did I know. I will remember the exploration of the small island the with crystal clarity, with my father.
I recall sitting on the patio of the clubhouse watching curtains of rain falling upon an immense sugarcane field as coconut palm fronds danced in the wind. The sun was shining as it rained. The rain shower quickly arrived and dissipated just as quickly. It was a welcome respite to the stifling heat of summer. It supported life, and it cleansed the land.
I enjoy the reverie of some of my experiences. It can be bitter sweet as time marches on. My parents have passed away, and I miss their smiles; and their unconditional love for me. I am remiss for taking them for granted. If I could have a do over, I would be the best damn son in the world. I know this because I too am a father now.
I have mulled going back to the PI for a visit but concluded the magic would not be there. My parents and friends are gone. The girls I tried to flirt with are gone. A strange family is living in our beautiful house with marble floors. No visit can compare with what I feel in my heart. Some things are to be experienced only once because time marches on.
I recall at the age of ten going on a cruise and visiting several islands and cities with my father. We went to Mindanao, Cebu, and Palawan. Off the coast of Palawan we rode in dugout canoe for an hour. I was lost in time as we passed islands of pink, white, and black beaches surrounded by the bluest clear water in the world. Our destination was a small magical island with white sand and coconut trees. We were alone. We were back in time and time did not mean anything. We were surrounded by infinite and timeless beauty.
The sun was bright and hot; and a light wind was relegated to gently stirring the hot air. We went snorkeling. The island was full of coconut trees and surrounded by a kaleidoscope of bright tropical fish in the water. Table top coral, like giant mushrooms, welcomed us. I had the opportunity to see a large bed of giant clams that were a couple feet wide. The island had a deep large hole off the beach. It was dark and deep enough to hide a small ship at the bottom while sharks swam overhead. I assumed maybe it was sunk in WWII? What did I know. I will remember the exploration of the small island the with crystal clarity, with my father.
I recall sitting on the patio of the clubhouse watching curtains of rain falling upon an immense sugarcane field as coconut palm fronds danced in the wind. The sun was shining as it rained. The rain shower quickly arrived and dissipated just as quickly. It was a welcome respite to the stifling heat of summer. It supported life, and it cleansed the land.
I enjoy the reverie of some of my experiences. It can be bitter sweet as time marches on. My parents have passed away, and I miss their smiles; and their unconditional love for me. I am remiss for taking them for granted. If I could have a do over, I would be the best damn son in the world. I know this because I too am a father now.
I have mulled going back to the PI for a visit but concluded the magic would not be there. My parents and friends are gone. The girls I tried to flirt with are gone. A strange family is living in our beautiful house with marble floors. No visit can compare with what I feel in my heart. Some things are to be experienced only once because time marches on.
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CMSgt (Join to see)
Beautiful. I agree, we can never capture the past but only appreciate what once was...
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And our influence dibbles away yet again. I do not think it is unintentional
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President Trump is not infruiated by this move by the Philippine government. I wonder what that back story is.
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PO3 Phyllis Maynard
1stSgt Nelson Kerr oh yeah, power. I had not considered power can trump (Snicker) money.
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