NORAD - (The North American Aerospace Defense Command) boasts a vast array of electronic eyes continually sweeping over the Continental U.S. NORAD is a joint Canada-U.S. radar and communications system built to counter threats to both country’s safety and security.
During the 1950’s in the middle of the Cold War when Soviet bombers and nuclear missiles crossed the Arctic Sea towards North American Territory - creating a need for monitoring of the skies over us, giving birth to NORAD and their goals and Slogan: DETER, DETECT, DEFEND:
- deter any potential aggressor by ensuring a devastating counterattack.
- detect incoming airborne threats with radar and satellite surveillance.
- defend North America by coordinating jets and missiles to intercept attackers.
Since then, NORAD has shifted its focus to monitor drug trafficking and terrorism as we know it today. With the terrible memories of 9-11 fresh on our minds, we rely more and more on ALL of our Armed Forces to protect and defend us from such tragedies ever happening on American soil again.
Custom Unit Designs for Air Force units, as well as for all other military branches, are also available at Vision-Strike-Wear.com. Visit our Custom Unit category to get a quote on a unique design made especially for you, based on your specifications.
Additionally, in celebration of the U.S. Air Force’s upcoming 64th birthday on September 18, 2011, Vision-Strike-Wear customers can get 20% off all Air Force t-shirts and decals during the entire month of September. Use Promo Code: AF1947 at check-out.
Integrity First ~ Service Before Self Excellence In All We Do USAF Core Values
September 5th, 2011
If you’re a member of the U.S. Air Force, you’re privy to the little Blue Book of Core Values. “Integrity First ~ Service Before Self ~ Excellence In All We Do” contains a list of traits that Air Force personnel abide by. They understand it, they follow it and they encourage others to do the same.
By definition, Integrity is a character trait. It is the willingness to do what is right even when no one is looking. It is the “moral compass”—the inner voice; the voice of self–control; the basis for the trust imperative in today’s military. A person of integrity, for example, is capable of acting on conviction. Integrity encompasses honesty, courage, responsibility, accountability, justice, openness, self-respect and humility that Air Force members are taught.
Service before self is self explanatory in that duties take precedence over personal desires. USAF members follow the rules, have respect for others, they are disciplined and self-controlled and strive to have faith in a system which they partake in.
Excellence in all we do involves a continuous improvement in training to propel USAF personnel to perform and endure in whatever they do.
These core values are set in place to relay to anyone wishing to join the USAF just what to expect as a member of this military branch. They call upon you to meet a level of ethical commitment.
Custom Unit Designs for Air Force units, as well as for all other military branches, are also available at Vision-Strike-Wear.com. Visit our Custom Unit category to get a quote on a unique design made especially for you, based on your specifications.
Additionally, in celebration of the U.S. Air Force’s upcoming 64th birthday on September 18, 2011, Vision-Strike-Wear customers can get 20% off all Air Force t-shirts and decals during the entire month of September. Use Promo Code: AF1947 at check-out.
You Have To Go Out, But You Don't Have To Come Back
August 29th, 2011
The "official-un-official" motto of the U.S. Coast Guard, Search & Rescue (SAR) came to the limelight with the 2006 blockbuster movie, The Guardian starring Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutcher. Search and Rescue (SAR) is one of the Coast Guard's oldest missions. It's goal is to minimize the loss of life, injury, property damage loss by coming to the aid to those in distress on a mission of mercy. "You have To Go Out, But You Don't Have To Come Back" resonates the danger that SAR personnel face when they go out on missions.
In order to protect and rescue us, the U.S. Coast Guard SAR has multi-mission stations, cutters, aircraft and boats linked by communications networks. SAR protects our national and international waters with facilities located on the East, West and Gulf Coasts. They're also stationed in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam and Puerto Rico. Inland, they oversee the Great Lakes and other U.S. waters. The Coast Guard is recognized worldwide as a leader in the field of search and rescue, boasting more than 1 million souls saved.
Certainly, we are glad we have brave men and women who go out on these missions to save our lives in dangerous water situations. Vision-Strike-Wear.com thanks our SAR guardians and wishes you a safe return home every time. Vision-Strike-Wear.com covers the backs the U.S. Coast Guard with custom designs in military shirts, military gifts, decals, pin-up girls for individuals serving our great nation. Our designs include the USCG SAR (Search and Rescue), USCG Surfman, USCG Cutter, MSST (Maritime Safety and Security Teams), and USCG Rate for Men and Womens T-shirts, Long Sleeve T-Shirts, Crewnecks & Sweatshirts, Hoodies, Tank-tops, Commemorative Plaques, Decals & Stickers, which can be customized using our BATTLE RATTLE feature to Customize It! with options for left chest, upper and lower sleeves! Vision-Strike-Wear.com, Wear The Military Gets Cover!
"BORN READY" U.S. COAST GUARD
August 22nd, 2011
Rounding out the month of Augusts celebration of our U.S. Coast Guard branch of the Armed Forces, we came upon the USCGs recruitment campaign slogan, Born Ready. Launched in late 2009, the campaign went full force with advertisements in movie theaters, television and newspaper and radio advertisements nationwide. The goal with the campaign is about finding those individuals with the skills, determination and courage to become members of the U.S. Coast Guard. Born Ready signifies who the Coast Guard is and what they do. Not only does the Coast Guard protect us from terrorists, drug runners, polluters and smugglers, they come to our aid in response to natural disasters.
The Coast Guard retrieved 15,000 pounds of cocaine from drug runners worth more than $180 million on Aug. 2, 2011.
Today more than ever, we rely on all of the members of the Armed Forces. The U.S Coast Guard is trained to be be ready at any given time. Training is extensive and grueling for these guardians of the United States. To learn more about what it takes to Be Ready to serve in the U.S. Coast Guard, visit their campaign website at http://www.gocoastguard.com
Photos showing a glimpse of several U.S. Coast Guard training sessions.
Vision-Strike-Wear.com backs the U.S. Coast Guard with custom designs in military shirts, military gifts, decals, pin-up girls for individuals serving our great nation. Our designs include the USCG SAR (Search and Rescue), USCG Surfman, USCG Cutter, MSST (Maritime Safety and Security Teams), and USCG Rate for Men and Womens T-shirts, Long Sleeve T-Shirts, Crewnecks & Sweatshirts, Hoodies, Tank-tops, Commemorative Plaques, Decals & Stickers, which can be customized using our BATTLE RATTLE feature to Customize It! with options for left chest, upper and lower sleeves! Vision-Strike-Wear.com, Wear The Military Gets Cover!
U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY
August 15th, 2011
As we continue this months recognition of the U.S. Coast Guard, we turn our focus to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary division, initially formed on June 23, 1939 by an act of Congress as the United States Coast Guard Reserve, and was re-designated as the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary on February 19, 1941.
Being a civilian organization comprised of volunteers, their job is to support all the USCG missions, outside of law enforcement or military combat operations. Auxiliarists who own a boat, aircraft or radio station often utilize their equipment on behalf of the USCG. Now dont take these guys lightly, as they are a well-trained extension of the U.S. Coast Guard and are often called to duty. When under orders, an Auxiliary member is recognized as a Federal employee, fully trained and ready to serve.
As of May 2010, there are approximately 30,000 active Auxiliarists. Called upon during the Hurricane Katrina and Rita disasters, the Auxiliary was instrumental in aiding the U.S. Coast Guard in rescue efforts.
Vision-Strike-Wear.com honors the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and its aid in protecting our great country. Weve got your back with custom designs in military shirts, military gifts, decals, pin-up girls for individuals serving our great nation. Our designs include the USCG SAR (Search and Rescue), USCG Surfman, USCG Cutter, MSST (Maritime Safety and Security Teams), and USCG Rate for Men and Womens T-shirts, Long Sleeve T-Shirts, Crewnecks & Sweatshirts, Hoodies, Tank-tops, Commemorative Plaques, Decals & Stickers, which can be customized using our BATTLE RATTLE feature to Customize It! with options for left chest, upper and lower sleeves! Vision-Strike-Wear.com, Wear The Military Gets Cover!
SPARS Women in the Coast Guard
August 8th, 2011
Women have played a vital role in the military throughout history. One such group was the SPARS, the United States Coast Guard Women's Reserve created on 23 November 1942 with the signing of Public Law 773 by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.
The name is a derivative of the Coast Guard motto Semper Paratus and its English translation meaning, "Always Ready." The name also refers to a spar in nautical usage. Like the other women's reserves such as the Women's Army Corps and the WAVES, it was created to free men from stateside service in order to fight overseas. Its first director was Captain Dorothy C. Stratton and she is credited with creating the name for the organization. The cutter USCG Spar (pictured below) is named after the SPARS.
The USCG Spar, WLB 206
Beginning on February 17, 1943, the women of SPARS received training over a 5-week boot camp course, that included military etiquette and customs, naval uniforms and history, ships and aircraft, military organization and regulations. Initial training took place at a leased Palm Beach Biltmore Hotel (pictured below left) where more than 7,000 women were trained over the course of 18 months. After training, some chose active duty while others chose their specialized job based on aptitude tests and their educational backgrounds. They took on jobs in communications, personal management, as well as exercising their seafaring skills (swimming, yachting or sailing) suitable for Coast Guard Maritime work.
US Coast Guard Training Station, Palm Beach, Florida
Enlisted SPAR dispatching communications
Today, more than ever, women in the military continue in their fervent service in all branches of the military - Coast Guard, Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine. Vision-Strike-Wear.com commends these brave women who serve side by side with their male counterpart soldier. Weve got your back with custom designs in military shirts, military gifts, decals, pin-up girls for individuals serving our great nation. Our designs include the USCG SAR (Search and Rescue), USCG Surfman, USCG Cutter, MSST (Maritime Safety and Security Teams), and USCG Rate for Men and Womens T-shirts, Long Sleeve T-Shirts, Crewnecks & Sweatshirts, Hoodies, Tank-tops, Commemorative Plaques, Decals & Stickers, which can be customized using our BATTLE RATTLE feature to Customize It! with options for left chest, upper and lower sleeves! Vision-Strike-Wear.com, Wear The Military Gets Cover!
"Semper Paratus"
August 1st, 2011
Many Branches and Services around the globe use this Slogan to exemplify enduring preparedness to defend against the enemies of freedom. The United States Coast Guard is one such branch that has kept this motto since the early 1830's when The New Orleans Bee newspaper reported on the actions of the newly formed United States Revenue Cutter Service that was established by then U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton. This would later become the United States Coast Guard.
Semper Paratus is Latin and translates to "Always Ready", which is exactly what the U.S. Coast Guard does everyday by patrolling the American coasts and protecting maritime interests. In this age of terrorist threats from afar and at home, this service is exponentially valuable to ensuring peace on America's shore's and ports. It is the only branch that is both an armed service and a federal law enforcement agency, which means they are equipped with the ability to arrest both military as well as civilians and is the only service that has this type of arresting authority.
Not only do they protect America's borders, the Coast Guard showed off its hard work in its efforts to clean-up the Oil Spill off the Mississippi Coastline in April 2010. Always ready, The Coast Guard is prepared and deployed to many overseas engagements since its original inception date of August 4th, 1790.
In honor of its 221st birthday, Vision-Strike-Wear wishes to celebrate the men and women of the United States Coast Guard and its long history of life saving, protection and defense with its multi-faceted and diverse responsibility making it them truly at the ready at anytime. Vision-Strike-Wear is also at the ready to supply these brave sailors the best in military t-shirts, military gifts and military decals for individuals serving this great nation. Check out Vision-Strike-Wear's selection of Coast Guard designs including USCG SAR (Search and Rescue), USCG Surfman, USCG Cutter, MSST (Maritime Safety and Security Teams), and USCG Rate for Men and Women's T-shirts, Long Sleeve T-Shirts, Crewnecks & Sweatshirts, Hoodies, Tank-tops, Commemorative Plaques, Decals & Stickers, which can be customized using our BATTLE RATTLE feature to Customize It! with custom left chest, upper and lower sleeves! Vision-Strike-Wear.com, Wear The Military Gets Cover!
"THE LOUDER YOU SCREAM, THE FASTER WE COME!"
July 25th, 2011
This is one of the many slogans used by the United States Medical evacuation teams, often termed MEDEVAC or medivac, and nicknamed "DUSTOFF" for (Dedicated Unhesitating Service To Our Fighting Forces) for the expedient and efficient delivery and en route care provided by medical personnel to the wounded being evacuated from the battlefield or to injured patients being evacuated from the scene of an accident to receiving medical facilities using medically equipped ground vehicles (ambulances) or aircraft (air ambulances). Examples include civilian EMT vehicles, civilian aeromedical helicopter services, and Army air ambulances. This also covers the transfer of patients from the battlefield to a treatment facility or from one treatment facility to another by medical personnel, such as from a Navy ship to a shore-based Naval hospital.
The United States Army pioneered these lifesaving techniques in Burma at the end of World War II, with Sikorsky R-4 helicopters. They established semi-permanent field hospitals immediately behind the front lines, which allowed wounded to receive complete medical treatment only after a short helicopter flight. The technique was depicted in the MASH film and M*A*S*H television series, set in the Korean War less than a decade later, where Bell 47 helicopters were often used. In modern American military terminology, medevac is often differentiated from casualty evacuation (casevac). In this context, medevac refers to the moving of a patient either from the point of injury, or a casualty collection point, to a medical facility or between the different levels of care with en route medical care whereas casevac has limited or no en route care and medical equipment. Casevac is heavily utilized by the United States Marine Corps and manned by United States Navy Hospital Corpsman; its helicopters are combat aircraft and will, as needed, land in "hot zones" medevac helicopters would not, due to hostile fire.
During Vietnam some Medevacs aircraft were restricted from landing into these "hot zones" due to heavy enemy fire while DUSTOFF units kept coming. Accordingly, medevac aircraft are normally modified aircraft with lifesaving equipment on board as well as trained medical personnel as part of the aircrew. The aircraft are marked with the Red Cross/Crescent, and as such, covered by the Geneva Convention, thereby allowing the aircrew to only carry personal weapons. In the United States military, the medevac mission is performed primarily by the United States Army.
Perhaps we free citizens of America need to SCREAM a little a louder to get the attention of the "mis" Leaders we have running our present and future world. The fact remains that the Gulf is still under attack and the economic repercussions are yet to be felt. Like a wounded soldier whose injuries are profusely bleeding internally and externally while the surgical staff argues over who made the bullet and the effects of gunpowder rather than stopping the hemorrhaging. This would be ludicrous and anybody acting as such would be immediately replace. What ever happened to the title "Commander in Chief"? Where is the example from the top? Why arent we treating the Gulf oil spill and our plummeting economy with the same measure as those men and women serving today and in the past responding the aid of wounded soldiers on the front line and within the battle itself? Another slogan used by DustOff units during the Vietnam War is "So Others May Live" for courageous and selfless efforts to save others. Often, we find such great examples and traditions within the ranks of our beloved military that makes us all swell up with pride and admiration for the spirit of heart and measure of character that we all wish to achieve. Why is this absent at the top of our chain of command?
Vision-Strike-Wear.com honors these units with designs including ARMYDUSTOFF,CORPSMANCOMBATMEDIC,the traditional ARMYRANKand ARMYMOSSKULL & SHIELD for the many brave and heroic soldiers, who, over the decades, have put themselves in harm's way in order to help and heal the wounded and injured. These designs and many more are available in men and women's t-shirts, long sleeve t-shirts, crewnecks & sweatshirts, hoodies, tank-tops, decals, stickers and commemorative plaques, which can be customized using our BATTLERATTLE feature to Customize It! with custom left chest, upper and lower sleeves! Vision-Strike-Wear.com, WearTheMilitaryGetsCover!
Above All
July 18th, 2011
The Air Forces newly adopted slogan, Above All epitomizes what the Air Force strives for in terms of excellence and pride in securing our countrys skies and borders. Breaking away from the Army and becoming its own separate branch in 1947, the Air Force is the youngest branch of the United States Armed Forces. The Air Force provides services such as strategic and tactical airlifts necessary for missions here and abroad, combat search and rescue, surveillance and reconnaissance, special ops, counter air, space, land and sea operations, and strategic attacks done with swift precision. Whether they fly a fighter jet, maintain it, or work in another support position, the Air Force men and women fulfill a necessary role in our countrys safety and security.
Above All touches on the Air Forces service men and womens core values and excellence in all they do. "Above All" is more than a slogan. Above all is the standard the Air Force holds itself to every day. Above all is what they do, day in and day out. Above all
The U.S. Armys seal and emblem embodies a message of strength, defense, perseverance, courage and many more admirable traits. Originally ONLY used during the American Revolution to authenticate documents, our Armys seal and emblem proudly boasts the motto, This Well Defend, a message that relays the Army's constant state of readiness to defend and preserve the United States. It was not until January 29th, 1974, that the Secretary of State approved a newly designed emblem (pictured below) as the official emblem to represent the Army, and reflects the date of the Armys year of its creation, 1775. Prior to this change, the Army had no official display to identify the Army.
The anatomy of the emblem includes:
The central element of the seal and emblem, the Roman cuirass, is a symbol of strength and defense. The sword, esponton (a type of half-pike formerly used by subordinate officers), musket, bayonet, cannon, cannon balls, mortar, and mortar bombs are representative of Army implements. The drum and drumsticks are symbols of public notification of the Army's purpose and intent to serve the Nation and its people. The Phrygian cap (often called the Cap of Liberty) supported on the point of an unsheathed sword and the motto "This We'll Defend"on a scroll held by the rattlesnake is a symbol depicted on some American colonial flags and signifies the Army's constant readiness to defend and preserve the United States. The colors of the design elements are those traditionally associated with the ideals of the United States and of the U.S. Army. Blue is symbolic of loyalty, vigilance, perseverance, and truth. Red denotes courage, zeal, and fortitude. White alludes to deeds worthy of remembrance. Black is indicative of determination and constancy. Gold represents achievement, dignity, and honor.
"Give me Liberty, or Give me Death!" - Patrick Henry, 3/23/1775
No man thinks more highly than I do of the patriotism, as well as abilities, of the very worthy gentlemen who have just addressed the House. But different men often see the same subject in different lights; and, therefore, I hope it will not be thought disrespectful to those gentlemen if, entertaining as I do opinions of a character very opposite to theirs, I shall speak forth my sentiments freely and without reserve. This is no time for ceremony. The questing before the House is one of awful moment to this country. For my own part, I consider it as nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery; and in proportion to the magnitude of the subject ought to be the freedom of the debate. It is only in this way that we can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfill the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country. Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings.
Mr. President, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst, and to provide for it.
I have but one lamp by which my feet are guided, and that is the lamp of experience. I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past. And judging by the past, I wish to know what there has been in the conduct of the British ministry for the last ten years to justify those hopes with which gentlemen have been pleased to solace themselves and the House. Is it that insidious smile with which our petition has been lately received? Trust it not, sir; it will prove a snare to your feet. Suffer not yourselves to be betrayed with a kiss. Ask yourselves how this gracious reception of our petition comports with those warlike preparations which cover our waters and darken our land. Are fleets and armies necessary to a work of love and reconciliation? Have we shown ourselves so unwilling to be reconciled that force must be called in to win back our love? Let us not deceive ourselves, sir. These are the implements of war and subjugation; the last arguments to which kings resort. I ask gentlemen, sir, what means this martial array, if its purpose be not to force us to submission? Can gentlemen assign any other possible motive for it? Has Great Britain any enemy, in this quarter of the world, to call for all this accumulation of navies and armies? No, sir, she has none. They are meant for us: they can be meant for no other. They are sent over to bind and rivet upon us those chains which the British ministry have been so long forging. And what have we to oppose to them? Shall we try argument? Sir, we have been trying that for the last ten years. Have we anything new to offer upon the subject? Nothing. We have held the subject up in every light of which it is capable; but it has been all in vain. Shall we resort to entreaty and humble supplication? What terms shall we find which have not been already exhausted? Let us not, I beseech you, sir, deceive ourselves. Sir, we have done everything that could be done to avert the storm which is now coming on. We have petitioned; we have remonstrated; we have supplicated; we have prostrated ourselves before the throne, and have implored its interposition to arrest the tyrannical hands of the ministry and Parliament. Our petitions have been slighted; our remonstrances have produced additional violence and insult; our supplications have been disregarded; and we have been spurned, with contempt, from the foot of the throne! In vain, after these things, may we indulge the fond hope of peace and reconciliation. There is no longer any room for hope. If we wish to be free-- if we mean to preserve inviolate those inestimable privileges for which we have been so long contending--if we mean not basely to abandon the noble struggle in which we have been so long engaged, and which we have pledged ourselves never to abandon until the glorious object of our contest shall be obtained--we must fight! I repeat it, sir, we must fight! An appeal to arms and to the God of hosts is all that is left us!
They tell us, sir, that we are weak; unable to cope with so formidable an adversary. But when shall we be stronger? Will it be the next week, or the next year? Will it be when we are totally disarmed, and when a British guard shall be stationed in every house? Shall we gather strength by irresolution and inaction? Shall we acquire the means of effectual resistance by lying supinely on our backs and hugging the delusive phantom of hope, until our enemies shall have bound us hand and foot? Sir, we are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power. The millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us. Besides, sir, we shall not fight our battles alone. There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us. The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave. Besides, sir, we have no election. If we were base enough to desire it, it is now too late to retire from the contest. There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable--and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come.
It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace-- but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!
Patrick Henry delivered one of the most powerful and most remembered speeches to the Virginia Convention on March 23, 1775. War seemed imminent to the Virginians and many began to waiver and consider reconciliation with the British ministry. Patrick Henry retorted that Britain would never reconcile with the colonies on terms that would ensure colonial rights and insisted that war was the only realistic option. Henry rose to defend his motion for war, and in his famous speech relayed a spirit of resistance that brought Virginia one major step towards its independence. In concluding his speech, Henry asked, "Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?" His answer: "Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"
Today, Henry's famous words still emanate in our country's heart and soul. In the words of the Special Forces slogan, "De Oppresso Liber", which in Latin means "to free from oppression", the U.S. military continues to defend our freedom and independence, going to the lengths of war to protect us. To the men and women who serve to protect us, we commend you for your bravery and we thank you for your sacrifice which allows us to celebrate yet another Fourth of July in freedom!
One of the earlier versions of the American Flag is the Gadsden Flag. Designed by and named after American General and Statesman, Christopher Gadsden, this American flag bore a yellow field depicting a rattlesnake coiled and ready to strike.
The rattlesnake (specifically, the Timer Rattlesnake) is especially significant and symbolic to the American Revolution. The rattler has thirteen layers, signifying the original Thirteen Colonies. And, the snake does not strike until provoked; a quality echoed by the phrase "Don't tread on me."
Used by the United States Marine Corps as an early motto flag, it was the first flag ever carried into battle by the United States Marine Corps, during the American Revolution.
Today, the jack of the United States (shown on right side of page) is a maritime flag representing United States nationality flown on the jackstaff in the bow of its vessels. The U.S. Navy is a prime user of jacks, but they are also used by ships of the Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and other governmental entities.
America's military exemplifies this attitude by training its soldiers to be ready and prepared for any attack or trespass to defend and protect from tyranny and aggression. Vision-Strike-Wear has your back featuring Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) Air Force Specialty Codes, Navy and Coast Guard Rates with these fully customizable "Battle Rattle" options includes Army MOS Skull and Shield Shirts, Army and Marine MOS Skull Shirts, Navy Submarine Force Rate Shirts, Navy Rate Jolly Roger Skull Shirts, Navy Brass Porthole Rate Shirts, Air Force Specialty Shirts, Coast Guard Rate Shirts and Coast Guard Skull Rate Shirts. Vision-Strike- Wear.com, Wear the Military Gets Cover!
The Naval Jack (First used January 8, 1776June 14, 1777)
Today, June 20th, celebrates "Audie Murphy Day" - his 87th birthday. The most decorated U.S. combat soldier of World War II, Audie was famously quoted for saying Lead from the Front, a battle style and motto that epitomized his leadership, professionalism and Army values that transcend throughout our militarys history to date.
Audies real-life battle stories are what movies are made of. He even starred in 1955s To Hell and Back, a movie about his own life story. In real life battle, he led by example, fighting in the front ranks right along side his men. In one account, Audie single-handedly defeated a German attack, killing dozens of Germans.
In his 3 years of service, he quickly rose up in rank from Army Private to Staff Sergeant and was given a battle field commission as 2nd Lieutenant, earning him 33 awards and decorations including the Medal of Honor, the highest military award for bravery that can be awarded to any individual in the United States of America. His awards also include 5 decorations by France and Belgium. Having fought in 9 major campaigns across the European Theater, Audie quickly became a legend within the 3rd Infantry Division. Audie had quickly become and is still known as one of the best combat soldiers of this or any other century.
Today, military soldiers from every rank strive to emulate Audie's tenacity and leadership. Vision-Strike-Wear recognizes this great combat soldier's legacy and in the spirit Audie's motto and dedication to the military, Vision-Strike-Wear leads from the front, putting all military personnel first in it's custom designs for Army Rank Shirts, Air Force Rank Shirts, Navy Rank Shirts, Marine Rank Shirts and Coast Guard Rate Shirts.
We have touched on only a small fraction of this amazing military hero's life and legacy. To learn more about Audie Murphys amazing life, Hollywood movie star and military career, visit: http://www.audiemurphy.com/amrf.htm
"FLAGS OF OUR FATHERS!"
June 13, 2011
Tomorrow is National Flag Day and all over the country people are celebrating by hoisting their colors high and proud for all to see and inspire us to remember the meaning behind our glorious flag and the sacrifices our forefathers have made to preserve its meaning.
The national flag of the United States of America (the American flag) consists of thirteen equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white, with a blue rectangle in the canton (referred to specifically as the "union") bearing fifty small, white, five-pointed stars arranged in nine offset horizontal rows of six stars (top and bottom) alternating with rows of five stars. The fifty stars on the flag represent the 50 states and the 13 stripes represent the original thirteen colonies that rebelled against the British monarchy and became the first states in the Union. Nicknames for the flag include the Stars and Stripes, Old Glory, and The Star-Spangled Banner
Vision-Strike-Wear presents the US Flag in both full color and IR (Infra-Red) for display on your customizable left chest design as well as upper and lower sleeves. Never before has one military t-shirt and apparel store offered as many choices for these locations for men and womens's t-shirts, long sleeve t-shirts, crewnecks & sweatshirts, hoodies, tank-tops so you can Customize It! with the US Flag and wear it proudly.
Also flying proudly the United States Flag adorn our portraits of "Heroes of Freedom" section which honors these brave men and women who have served and sacrificed to raise this banner during times of war and peace. If you or someone you know is currently serving or has served please find the pictures and the information to us so we can showcase on our site. Scan it or have someone who can scan it and email to us. Click Here to see examples of what we've done so you can try to gather the same kind of material to send. It doesn't have to be granular or detailed. Simply include final rank, tours of duty, medals and dates and Certificates and Discharge papers, etc. If you have medals, lay them directly on the scanner for best results. If not send names of medals and we can find images. All sensitive info will be removed.
Anybody sending in will get a lifetime 20% discount for purchases on our site as well as a press release announcing your persons service to the country. If you have any questions, please contact us and we will be glad to assist. We look forward to your submissions.
"Rangers Lead The Way!"
June 6, 2011
On 6 June 1944, during the Normandy D-Day assault landing on Dog White sector of Omaha Beach, General Norman Cota approached Maj. Max Schneider, CO of the 5th Ranger Battalion and asked What outfit is this?, Schneider answered "5th Rangers, sir!" To this, Cota replied Well, goddamit, if you're Rangers, lead the way! From this, the Ranger motto"Rangers lead the way!"was born.
Army Ranger's historically have always led the way from the Korean War to Vietnam, participated in 1980, with Operation Eagle Claw, the 1980 rescue attempt of American hostages in Tehran, Iran, Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada, the U.S. invasion of Panama (Operation Just Cause) in 1989, First Persian Gulf War (Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield) in 1991, the base unit of Task Force Ranger in Operation Gothic Serpent, in Somalia in 1993, concurrent with Operation Restore Hope. In 1994, soldiers from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Ranger Battalions deployed to Haiti (before the operation's cancellation. The force was recalled 5 miles from the Haitian coast. The 3rd Ranger Battalion led the attack in Afghanistan, in 2001. The Ranger Regiment has been involved in multiple deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom since 2003.The 75th Ranger Regiment has been one of the few units to have members continuously deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Vision-Strike-Wear.Com supports these incredibly valiant, dedicated and honorable warriors who accept the enemy on their terms and persevere in all conditions and situations. From the amazing climb to the top of Point du Hoc during the D-Day invasion to their tireless efforts in support of OEF and OIF, these American heroes are honored in the designs and shirts created by Vision-Strike-Wear.Com. It is with their trailblazing attitude that American flags have been displayed over many enemy positions. The featured Ranger design is hard hitting, sharp as a razor like the Ranger's themselves, places the control in its customers hands by giving them options such as choosing the battalion, cover, or warpaint giving it a custom unique military design all your own. The Battle Rattle designs of Vision-Strike-Wear.Com change in real-time as the options you want are selected. Unique and innovative, their military designs are available on short and long sleeve t-shirts for men and women, sweatshirts, hoodies, tank-tops, sweatpants and shorts. Take the high ground when choosing vision-Strike-Wear.Com's military designs. Vision-Strike-Wear.Com, Wear The Military Gets Cover!
"Don't Give Up The Ship!"
May 30, 2011
During the first year of the War of 1812, the young United States Navy won several stunning victories in ship-to-ship battles against British Royal Navy warships.This was a slap in the face to the superior British Fleet. An American officer contributing to these successes was James Lawrence. On 24 February 1813, Lawrences sloop, the Hornet, devastated the HM Brig-Sloop Peacock by nearly sinking her in 15 minutes.Lawrence as a result of this action was promoted to the rank of Captain and given command of the frigate Chesapeake.
The Chesapeake was then assigned by the Navy Department was the seizure and destruction of British transports seeking Canadian ports. When Lawrence arrived in Boston on 20 May, 1812 a British warship, the frigate Shannon, remained in view blockading the harbor. The Shannon with a more experienced crew, better gunnery was a slight advantage to the Chesapeake but Captain Lawrence engaged with the enemy regardless. After a hard-fought, bloody action lasting only a quarter of an hour, the American frigate struck her colors to Shannon. The defeat gained Lawrence fame and honor as a fallen naval hero. The words of Lawrences last spoken command soon became a battle cry throughout the American fleet, most famously as the motto emblazoning Oliver Hazard Perrys battle flag at the Battle of Lake Erie: Dont Give Up The Ship.
On Memorial Day we remember American heroes like Captain Lawrence aboard the sloops Hornet and Chesapeake and those like him that fight in the defense of this country and the preservation of its freedoms. American history is filled with testaments to the determination of never giving up, taking the beachhead like our fathers and grandfathers did on D-Day, June 6th, 1944 or the launch of 6 Army B-25s from the flight deck of the USS Hornet to strike the Japanese home islands in one of the most daring raids in the history of warfare -- the "Doolittle Raid". She also participated in the greatest naval military battle, Midway. Later the USS Hornet, one of the most decorated ships of the US Navy assisted NASA in the flawless recovery of the Apollo 11 space capsule and the first men to walk on the moon. A few months later, she also recovered the Apollo 12 capsule and its all-Navy crew in 1969.
Captain Lawrence aboard the Hornet in the days of Wooden Ships and Iron Men and his iconic leadership transcends into the modern day and still carries the same message whether aboard the Chesapeake or USS Hornet or even our own country, Dont Give Up The Ship.
Vision-Strike-Wear.Com supports our modern military men and women in uniform, their family and friends during Memorial Day and throughout the month of June with two great promotions: Operation Overlord, with a free military branch decal with any purchase made and $2 off any apparel purchase when our Vision-Strike-Wear Overlord design is selected for the left chest on your choice of men and womens short or long sleeve t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, or tank-tops and Flags Of Your Father's Day promotion with 20% off Vision-Strike-Wear.Com's Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard military branch flags and historical flags including Betsy Ross, Bennington, Gadsden, Confederate, Coast Guard ensign and Navy Jack flags as well.Now is a time to remember our American Heroes of Freedom displayed in a timeless memorial showcase at Vision-Strike-Wear.Com Wear The Military gets Cover!
"To Arms To Arms!"
May 1st, 2011
Many people who hear the term "To Arms To Arms The British Are Coming!" are familiar with its all too familiar ring know and understand that on April 18, 1775, America experienced a fateful date in its history. On that night, Paul Revere, a Boston businessman and silversmith, rode his horse through the darkened countryside and arguably announced to his fellow colonists To Arms! British Red Coats were arriving by sea to suppress any effort by the American colonists to gain their freedom from the tyranny of the British crown. Once they were alerted, the Minutemen, grabbing their muskets, responded at Lexington and Concord, and the rest is as they say is history.
Since that day it has become an American right to bear arms and defend ones own property and personal freedoms. It is so important to us that it has become part of the very fabric of who we are as Americans and has been written into our law with the passing of the Second Amendment to the Constitution. As a people we are the largest Army in the world with the ability to arm ourselves and meet any enemy foreign or domestic. It is the soldier citizenry of America that has this distinction. Owning a firearm is a personal choice and we as Americans have that right to choose. The types of weapons and options are as distinctive as their owners. There are hundreds if not thousands of different weapons we have as choices when deciding what we want when it comes to gun ownership. When it comes to military graphics and apparel the choices you make equally define who you are. Vision-Strike-Wear.Com recognizes that choice and that having these options lie at the core of who we are as a culture. Selecting what you want is a personal right and when finding a custom military apparel item whether it be an Army t-shirt, Navy Shirt, Air Force tee, Marine tee shirt or possibly a Coast Guard t, you have the same freedom to select what you want displayed on your military clothing. At Vision-Strike-Wear.Com we call this Battle Rattle!
The Battle Rattle options at vision-Strike-Wear.Com puts the control and design options in your hands by creating military graphics that offer hundreds of options from weapon types, military covers, backgrounds, eye gear, rank, rates, warpaint camouflage, and more. Like the pistol or rifle you personally own, you may desire a specific scope or grip and make it even more unique. Vision-Strike-Wear.Com also further enhances its unique designs for you with customizable text options for the front and back of your design as well as customization in selecting a specific military shoulder or sleeve graphic. You can build a custom military design on your choice of apparel from short and long sleeve t-shirt, sleeveless shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, shorts, sweatshirts and sweatpants and build your military clothing item from the ground up.
To Arms To Arms was the message to rise up and take action in our early history and it was the Minutemen that carried it out by helping to deliver our country from the tyrannical nature of a foreign crown. Vision-Strike-Wear.Com delivers the personal freedom of choice in providing an arsenal of military designs that you can create in a minutes time. Vision-Strike-Wear.Com, Wear the Military Gets Cover!
Vision-Strike-Wear.Com has your back during Armed Forces month with free military branch stickers in honor of our fine men and women in uniform. Vision-Strike-Wear.Com will be giving away a free Army, Navy, Air force, Marine or Coast Guard decal with every purchase on their website. Here is a great way to show your support by displaying these outdoor decals on your car, truck, motorcycle, boat, RV or ATV.
"Get Your Battle Rattle On!"
April 18, 2011
During the American Civil War, Navy regulations required the Battle Rattle to be made from White Oak, a hard dense wood known as The King of Trees, which symbolizes strength and virtue. The Battle Rattle, a box with a single handle that produced a rat-tat-tat sound when spun could be heard over the sounds of battle, signaling the Captain's orders.
A Battle Rattle is one example of a long standing military tradition, which takes on new meaning and functionality in modern times. America's current warriors no longer rely on a Battle Rattle to save their lives by communicating the Captain's orders, but they do still rely on Battle Rattle to aid them in gaining leverage to win and survive battle. America's volunteer military force is one of the best trained and equipped; with all the best Battle Rattle. Modern warriors Battle Rattle may consist of a helmet, goggles, Kevlar vest, pistol belt, canteen, ruck sack, cold weather pack, and more. One man is required to carry 30 to 100 pounds of gear into battle. Each warrior configures their Battle Rattle to meet their individual needs for the mission. Vision Strike Wear understanding the necessity for individual customization, allows patron's to choose the Battle Rattle that's right for them.
When it comes to maneuvering outside the wire, American warriors have the best choice of gear at hand for the mission. Whether they are helping civilians after natural disasters like Japan, Thailand, India, and New Orleans or helping a government suppress genocide and chaos, bringing stabilization to an area of operations, American troops are prepared for the task. It is along this path of choosing one's gear that, Vision Strike Wear is set apart as the leader in all custom military branded apparel needs.
Vision Strike Wear's goal is to fulfill their customer's individual needs by granting them full customizing power, enabling their customers to make purchases, which reflect their achievements and personalities.
How does Vision Strike Wear accomplish this level of quality customization?
Vision Strike Wear doesn't stop at state of the art technology printing, or offering an immense variety of colors; Vision Strike Wear provides several designs for each military branch, which encourages customers to take customization to a new level to get their Battle Rattle on. What does get your battle rattle on mean?
Vision Strike Wear's manufacturing methods enable their patron's instant freedom of choice to customize specific designs labeled Battle Rattle.
Battle Rattle designs hand the power of customization to their customers.
When choosing a Battle Rattle design, the buyer has the ability to customize the cover, war paint, weapons, rank, rates, service, specialty and much more.
No other company on the globe offers the freedom of extensive customization and direct contact with the artists with no minimum order requirements on purchases. As a leader Vision Strike Wear dominates in supporting America and it's military forces with its For The Troops and Affiliate programs.
These influential programs permit Vision Strike Wear customer's freedom to support their favorite charities simply by stating they want a portion of the proceeds from their purchase to be donated to the charity of their choice, at no additional charge to the customer.
Vision-Strike-Wear.Com's Custom Military Unit Designs and innovative Battle Rattle system allows you to create a unique design for groups and for the individual with customization on both the front and back, shoulder and sleeves on a variety of apparel items from men and womens t-shirts, long sleeve t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, tank-tops, decals and more! Wear the Military Gets Cover!
of resistance that brought Virginia one major step towards its independence. In concluding his speech, Henry asked, "Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?" His answer: "Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take, but as for me, 
The Chesapeake was then assigned by the Navy Department was the seizure and destruction of British transports seeking Canadian ports. When Lawrence arrived in Boston on 20 May, 1812 a British warship, the frigate Shannon, remained in view blockading the harbor. The Shannon with a more experienced crew, better gunnery was a slight advantage to the Chesapeake but Captain Lawrence engaged with the enemy regardless. After a hard-fought, bloody action lasting only a quarter of an hour, the American frigate struck her 
