I Love a Man in a Uniform (and the Women, Too!)

It's the Fourth of July, and the Cotillion girls are dancing with the Milbloggers!

My dance partners for the day: a group of fine men who either have served or are serving this country.

I’m honoring a Navy Seal, a gentleman from the army’s Special Forces, three “former� Marines, and one active-duty one. After all, the USMC has a special place in my life (Attila the Hub having been one of the few and the proud).

Next year, I’m hoping to add at least one Vietnam-era LRRP—because another special friend of ours used to do these dangerous patrols in 'Nam many years ago.

Without further ado I give you—

“USMC� in Al Fallujah, who is giving us on-the-ground news from Iraq, practically in real time. This is a great starting point for those of us who want to cut through the BS out there and find out what’s really going on.

Matthew Heidt of Froggy Ruminations, whose entries are always thoughtful and well-reasoned (and, yes: we’ve had a couple of spirited arguments, handled with good sense and politeness on—well, on his side, at least).

Special Forces Alpha Geek is a “findâ€�—a nicely written blog with a fresh perspective.

Nick D. , the host of Twenty-first Century Republican, brings a lot to the party—and more to the cotillion’s July 4th Gala.

Marvin of Little Red Blog is a great writer, a thinker—and a good dancer. Here, he shares some important observations about aid to Africa.

The Marine officer and future lawyer who publishes Law and Ordnance always has good insights; here, he tackles Pablo Paredes.

And Former Marine Ben writes fabulous essays; he’s a straight shooter and we’re lucky to have him online.

Thanks to all who have put on a uniform to defend this country. And thanks to their families, who have endured and sacrified so much in the efforts to keep us safe.