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<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" colspan=2 height=120 BGCOLOR="#669966" TEXT="#080000"> <div> <A HREF="http://oldmanmilitia.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://oldmanmilitia.com"><U><IMG SRC="350ff730.jpg" border=0 width="767" height="115" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> <bR> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" width=110 BGCOLOR="#669966" TEXT="#080000"> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com" title ="Old Man Militia" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com" title ="Ol"><U><B><IMG SRC="1884a170.gif" border=0 width="74" height="23" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/creed" title = "OMM Marker's Creed" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/creed" titl"><U>OMM Creed</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/about" title = "About Us" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/about" titl"><U>About Us</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/roster" title = "Roster" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/roster" tit"><U>Roster</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/news" title = "News" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/news" title"><U>Latest News</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/schedule" title = "Schedule" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/schedule" t"><U>Schedule</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/photos" title = "Photos" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/photos" tit"><U>Photos</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/videos" title = "Videos" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/videos" tit"><U>Videos</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" title = "Awards" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" tit"><U>Awards</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/phpBB2/" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/phpBB2/"><U><B>Forum</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/contacts" title = "Contact Us" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/contacts" t"><U>Contact Us</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/links" title = "Links" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/links" titl"><U>Links</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.cafepress.com/omm_shop1" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.cafepress.com/omm_shop1"><U><IMG SRC="1955e590.jpg" border=0 width="94" height="89" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></A></div> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" height=360 BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000"> <div> <I><B><U>Latest News</U></B></I></div> <div> <B> <A NAME="october_23nd_24th_2010"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>October 23nd-24th, 2010</B></div> <div> "The Battle of Ia Drang" Scenario Game</div> <div> West Point Combat Classic, Lake Frederick, NY</div> <div> <I>by:  TBD</I></div> <div> Vincent "Honu" Young is awarded <A HREF="awards__westpointfall2010.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U>Most Valuable Player</U></A> for the American side at West Point's Fall Combat Classic - <I>"The Battle of Ia Drang"</I>.</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>In attendance:</B></I>  Two-Gun, Rolo, Compulsion, and Honu, with guest CAM (aka LizzardBreath).</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="may_22nd_2010"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>May 22nd, 2010</B></div> <div> Fort Meade Field Recon - After Action Report</div> <div> by: <I>Rob "Two-Gun" Coyle</I></div> <bR> <div> The Purpose of this AAR is to document the events of a Casual day of play at Fort Meade Army Base on 5/22/2010.</div> <bR> <div> In an interesting turn of events, Fort Meade, site of one of the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia's</B></I></FONT> more memorable battles (<A HREF="#june_13th_2008" TITLE="Latest News"><U>click here for that AAR</U></A>), has opened a semi permanent paintball field. Located in Laurel, it's a drive for most of the team, but in a reversal of fortunes, it's actually close to the team captain, so . . .</div> <bR> <div> After a brief recon of the field by Sabot last week to see what was up, Sabot, Honu, Honu's son Daniel, and Two-Gun all decided to give it a go. Air ball was the expected field and game type, which is overall the weak point for the team. Both Sabot and Two Gun 'fessed up that, despite years of play, they had yet to actually set foot amongst the doritos, beer cans, tombstones, and burritos.</div> <bR> <div> The day started off nice enough; slightly overcast, not yet hot, good breeze. Since the event was on post, getting through the gate in as few vehicles as possible was the way to go, so the normal huge arsenal of markers and equipment remained behind in favor of cramming everyone into Sabot's Truck. Did toss in Two-Gun's Shade almost as an afterthought, which turned out to be a pretty good idea.</div> <bR> <div> The field was a very straightforward affair; it was a single field with a standard air ball set up with the 'office' being a sun shade, folding table, and off road golf-cart with trailer. Standard rentals (98s, CO2) were available, and a compressor capable of 3k fills was on hand. Field fee was a nominal $7, including all day air. Not a bad price, but as literally just an Air ball field, that's about right. Don't expect air techs or even an overly large selection of Alan wrenches - it's a strictly bring your own kinda place at the moment . . . sanctioned outlaw ball if you will. Aside from the registration set up, there was no shade, no tables, etc., only the field. Bringing your own table and shade is highly recommended.</div> <bR> <div> Load-out was pretty light; Sabot had his Ego, Two Gun went with a Stock Class Pump and Honu and Daniel had an Open Class Sniper and a couple Semi autos, and for the most part, we were the only ones on the field. Multiple games of two on two, with the scores ranking pretty much even. The one exception was when Honu and Two-Gun ended up on the same side with pumps . . . Semi-Autos hit a bad streak there and pumps were on a roll.</div> <bR> <div> It's worth noting that it was only Daniel's fifth time out or so, and the improvement he displayed from beginning to end was remarkable. A decent shot and fairly quick to begin with, his Achilles heel was quite literally his heel. Lots of hang out on the first couple games with several hits to the boot/pod pack. But he picked it up pretty quick, and was playing much tighter by the end of the day.</div> <bR> <div> A few moves stood out among the laid back day; in one of the first games, Sabot and Two Gun vs. Daniel and Honu, resulted in Sabot being taken down without Two Gun realizing it. Honu doubled back, and then ran screaming 'Surrender' straight up the field until he tapped the oblivious player on the shoulder. Aside from his pride, no damage was done.</div> <bR> <div> The refs also joined in, given the lack of players. Leo's been playing about a month now, and his willingness to take a hit and move under fire shows a lot of promise. In another memorable moment, he ended up being last man standing on the back corner, facing down Honu and Sabot on the front and being advanced and flanked by Two Gun. Just before Two Gun could level a shot, he called out. It was later revealed that Two Gun thought Sabot got him, Sabot thought Two Gun got him, and Leo in the end decided discretion was the better part of valor and just called himself out, a sound strategic choice.</div> <bR> <div> But <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>didn't have it all their own way. The other ref, Adam, was something of a pro/semi pro (apologies if you're reading this, Adam) or just about. He was there coaching and talking and guiding with plenty of tips and solid information. It was impressive to watch the way he guided the newer players (of Note, with him giving directions, Daniel managed to win a Last Man Standing against Honu and Sabot), as well as see him hit the field. His one ball kills were some of the cleanest I've witnessed, and I think the team learned more about Air ball and small field tactics in this one day than we have in the past two years. Major thanks!</div> <bR> <div> The games went on like that for awhile with plenty of trade ups and rotations. In a particularly enjoyable showdown, Honu and Sabot cornered Adam on the backfield after the other players had been eliminated. Honu played distraction and got taken down, but the movement allowed Sabot to slip from Al's field of vision, drop around, and take him by surprise in a classic move.</div> <bR> <div> After a couple good hours of 2 v 2 and 3 on 3 play, the day was called and <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>helped strike the field. Overall a great day, but hoping for a few more people, and maybe a woods ball field, in the near future.</div> <bR> <div> Also like to take this occasion to thank Adam for the coaching, Leo for the reffing, and Daniel for coming out - hope to see him at future <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>activities!</div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>April 19th, 2010</B></div> <div>               Besides being Spudcrazy's 41st birthday today, Spudcrazy has decided to step down as captain of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>.  He has been captain of the team since its inception in 2005.  In addition, he has been the webmaster, graphic artist for all things <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>, mouth on the forums, resolver of any issues in regards to <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, as well as being liason to scenario generals, producers, and field owners.  This decision was solely instigated by Spud and no one else.  He was not asked to step down, nor did he ask for approval to step down, instead, in light of the last weekends performance as a budding general at the West Point Combat Classic, he decided that Sabot Ranger would be the perfect fit to fill the role of captain.  In essense, Spudcrazy and Sabot Ranger are just exchanging their command positions.  Spudcrazy will still be webmaster, graphic artist and mouth, but Sabot will make all game decisions, be liason to fields, producers, and generals, as well as initiate membership recruits.  Along with the other founding member, Legman, Spudcrazy and Sabot Ranger share the exact same philosophy of the team and it's path forward and that is to remain a relatively small team that is sneaky and covert, but with the most important factor being to have fun and maintain a high standard of sportsmanship and integrity.  We play to WIN, but not at the expense of fun and honor.</div> <bR> <div>              So please support <A HREF="sabotranger_page.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Sabot Ranger"><U>Sabot Ranger</U></A> as <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>'s captain and commander.  He will continue to bring team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> forward and will build on their success, no doubt.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="april_17th_18th_2010"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>April 17th-18th, 2010</B></div> <div> "Operation: Just Cause" Scenario Game</div> <div> West Point Combat Classic, Lake Frederick, NY</div> <div> <I>by: Stephen "Sabot Ranger" Barger</I></div> <bR> <div>                 <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> scenario paintball team made its furthest ever jaunt north April 17 - 18 to play scenario ball and camp at the United States Military Academy Lake Frederick recreational area in the woods of New York. Historic as this trek was for the team it was also Sabot Ranger's debut as commanding general in a scenario; at a field where none of his team or he had ever played. By all accounts “Sabot” and <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>accounted for themselves quite well with the first `uphill  blue win' in more than 14 years with the support of “Barney”, Dan Alamo as XO and many NY area teams' awesome ATTACK attitude.</div> <div> The U.S. Military Academy at West Point Paintball Team presented their Spring '10 Combat Classic scenario <I>Operation Just Cause</I> based on the U.S invasion of Panama to depose the corrupt Manuel Noriega.  Eric Engler of Engler Custom Paintball guns was scheduled to perform the duties of General for the Panamanian side. </div> <div> <I><B>OMMs </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >own Stephen “Sabot Ranger” Barger a retired Army infantry, airborne Ranger lieutenant colonel agreed to try to knock the Panamanian team off their perch as General of the U.S. Forces! Unfortunately, a bit of Montezuma's Revenge kept Engler sidelined for much of the game as his XO Doug “NJHusker” Decker ably took command of the red forces on the high ground. </FONT></div> <div> <IMG SRC="394b3cb0.jpg" border=0 width="179" height="203" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="8" VSPACE="0">Given Sabot's neophyte status in this particular venue, he was extremely pleased and honored to have Daniel Alamo, aka BarneyNY the Purple guy accept the challenge of being his XO. Barney's contributions in recruiting, field commanding, and `XO-ing' would be crucial to making this game fun for the players and keeping Sabot's reputation intact.</div> <div> For those players, like all of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>, uninitiated in the terrain around USMA the playing `field' has really rocky outcroppings and sheer cliffs on mountains with a few `level' areas and mountain goat trails. The defending red Panamanian Defense Forces occupied the flattest high ground at an elevation of 200 feet above the attacking blue U.S Special Operations Forces. The terrain was definitely daunting as the smack talk on the forums clearly demonstrated.</div> <div> The scenario was relatively simple. There were four flag stations with each flag (broom stick) having a red and a blue side. One flag was in each quadrant of the field with two flags on the high ground and two on the low ground. Each flag was worth 50 points every 30 minutes. That meant in order for either side to win more often than not they had to own their own 2 flags plus at least one of the enemy's flags. This setup guaranteed constant fighting and the give and take of flags and key terrain all day long. There were also scheduled missions including two on day one and a single mission on day two each worth 500 points plus the final battle.  During the course of the day the cadet referees would place two large white PVC pipes out in the playing field. Each pipe represented an artillery `fire mission' which could be called on with prior coordination, at a time and grid of the general's choice. Each mission resulted in a kill area of about 50 feet for all players within that area. After a general fired a mission the referees hid the tubes back out in the playing area causing another fight. </div> <div>      The fight first started on the pbnation forums immediately after the game was announced. The great thing about this scenario smack talk was the fiercely competitive yet friendly spirit with both generals and players staying `in character' adding to the scenario feeling.:</div> <div> <I>“I can't believe you guys would fight for such an intolerable tyrant as Noriega! I have to admit I think the CIA put him in power then didn't like how he ran things. So come on out of the church with your hands up and we can all go downtown and quaff a few. No need to make us pound on you!  Oh,  we plan to occupy and HOLD the high ground so don't feel threatened (or defended) by a hill! (Look forward to a FUN honorable fight!)  </I><I><B>~SABOT</B></I></div> <div> <I>Sabot, the only high ground you will take and occupy will be the cooler in your campsite.. My boys are in shape and ready for battle. And just in case you haven't seen our little hill yet... you'd better bring your personal physicians cause you're gonna need em. Do not underestimate our desire to avoiding climbing that hill more than once a day. We will fight hard to keep that ground.. and just when you least expect it... don't be surprised if you get word from the front that your base has been overrun... lol   </I><I><B>~RED or DEAD!  Husker</B></I></div> <div> Many <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>players took Friday as a leave day and began the long haul north early Friday. Immediately on arrival one thing became obvious. It was not yet spring in New York! Temperatures were quite chilly and humid with rain and wind gusting. Fortunately, Sabot used his retiree privileges and had a cabin reserved. The cabin was nothing fancy but it had a good dry roof, protection from the wind and plenty of bunk space, including mattresses! The camp site had plenty of brand new porta-potties and even a real Army latrine with hot showers. This would be a first for the usually austere (read cheap) <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>players.</div> <div> With `camp' made Sabot, Barney, Spudcrazy, Legman, Rolo and Mini-me conducted a leaders' recon of the playing field. Following the recon <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>began to walk the camping area and meet the other players; again these are teams and players almost none of whom <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>had ever met. After everybody settled in Sabot and Barney called a captains meeting in the cabin.   Security was tight and access strictly guarded by <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>'s security expert Marine military policeman Scott `Rolo' Rold. Sabot provided several large acetated charts and maps of the playing field which helped everybody visualize the fight and discuss maneuver effectively. Each team captain discussed their teams' strengths, capabilities, equipment and previous experiences and recommendations for the scheme of maneuver. After a good exchange among all teams and mentoring from Barney, Sabot issued the `orders of the day' and the captains moved out smartly. According to discussions after the game this one meeting was a critical key to blue success. (The specific details of the battle plan remain classified!) But Sabot's field commanders, Barney, on the right, Leg-man in the middle and Spudcrazy on the left would report the situation, request assistance and pass orders to the teams in their respective sectors from Sabot.</div> <div> Unique to West Point is the amazing wake up call only the finest hotels provide. The bang and boom of artillery and grenade simulators accompanied by the chatter of 7.62 mm M240  and 5.56 M249 machine guns rang out sharply at `zero six hundred' to the surprise of many campers.</div> <div> The next big event was of course the player safety brief. West Point paintball  bid farewell to Army Master Sergeant Chris DuBois and Captain<IMG SRC="396c8b30.jpg" border=0 width="200" height="179" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="8" VSPACE="0"> Blanning who had been the academy cadre guiding the cadet paintball teams. Doobie was completing his more than 20 year career and retiring as Cpt. Blanning moved on to his next assignment.  </div> <div> Following a hilarious yet effective and memorable safety brief Sabot injected some historical perspective and troop inspiration. Sabot brought to the podium a pineapple with eyes and mouth made of paintballs, a cigar butt hanging from the mouth already impaled on a large stick. After a brief history lesson Sabot jammed a real Ranger stiletto knife through pineapple and paintball face of the mock `Manuel Noriega' and yelled, “Sua Sponte. In the absence of orders go out there and shoot something.” The briefing concluded with chants of U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A!</div> <div>              Day one began with a bang as blue and red players took off running to occupy as much terrain as possible.  The bang was impressive as the cadets fired off grenade and artillery simulators and more machine gun blanks rattled away. US forces quickly took hold of flags 1 and 4 and fought for flag 3 high on the left flank.</div> <div>              Spud on the left with his forces fought back and forth for flag 3. Rolo, Honu, Mini-me, Mamba and Two-gun led attacks and kept sneaking the left tapeline putting fire on the red insert point and denying them a flanking maneuver. Leg man kept the middle forces focused and kept the PDF from storming the center. In fact the middle forces scaled the walls and pushed the red center back to their own insert point. About mid-day a mission came in to find and protect a PDF defector who would have valuable intelligence. A general ear to search was given and US forces scoured the area for almost an hour and a half before finding the deserter. That success guaranteed a hard fought 500point lead and valuable intelligence regarding a secret airfield near flag 2. </div> <div> Red forces held 2 on the high right flank as their sole flag for much of the day. Barney led several inspiring attacks and took flag 2 and held it several times until paint, air and reinforcements just could not keep the PDF off the flag. In the final hour a mission came to keep Noriega from escaping via a mock up plane between flag 2 and the red command post/reinsertion point. It was a hairy 45 minute struggle with lots of surges and attacks. In the final 5 minutes Sabot called in his final artillery strike between the red reinsert point and Noriega's plane and the US right flank held and won the final mission points for the day.</div> <div> Due to the dangerous nature of the terrain West point does not play at night. Many of the players took off to the local eateries and tourist spots which abound the area in a huge outlet mall in the very close by the field.</div> <div> <IMG SRC="398c8960.jpg" border=0 width="200" height="150" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="8" VSPACE="0">Day two kicked off in the same loud manner with a rousing 0600 hours artillery wakeup call. Players quickly rearmed, re-aired and headed to another inspiring safety brief including the final smashing to smithereens of the pineapple mock Noriega. The play continued in much the same vein for the second day of fighting. Blue held 2 of the 4 flags all day and the third flag for much of the day. The final mission came in to keep Noriega from escaping. Given the historical nature of the game Sabot ordered teams to abandon flags and scour the waterfront for his escape boat which the real Noriega had tried to use before holing up in the church. The PDF tried a deception plan with the PDF flag running along the high ground to the right while Noriega headed the other direction. A small rubbe<IMG SRC="39ae8910.jpg" border=0 width="232" height="145" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="8" VSPACE="0">r inflatable boat (really) was found and quickly reported. Blue forces immediately surrounded the boat in depth with more than 100 players in all directions stacked five deep and separated by 50 feet each thus negating the potential effect of an artillery strike.</div> <div> Noriega quickly decided discretion was the better part of valor and surrendered his marker to Sabot at the blue CP. A rousing final battle began after a break for more air and paint. Again Blue forces stormed the terrain and took the final points. The game ended with a stunning and historic <A HREF="awards_victorious_general_of_the_american.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U>US Blue victory</U></A> with a score of 4000 to 1350 the first US blue victory fighting uphill in more than a decade.</div> <div> According to SpudCrazy, (then) captain and a founding member of Old Man Militia this team has certainly found its scenario paintball niche. And that niche is in field command and leading from the front to inspire other players and teams to attack, attack, attack.</div> <div> There are literally a thousand recollections of the game. But below are a few from team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>.</div> <div> <I><B>TWO-GUN:</B></I></div> <div> -One of the best games in a long time. Really reminded me of why I liked paintball. </div> <bR> <div> -This account of one of the most dramatic events in the game comes from Two-Gun, who happened to be grievously wounded (read: out) and was wandering the field snapping photos. </div> <bR> <div> -Somehow, the Red tank had made it to our insert point and was hammering our base pretty hard; I dunno how it made it that far, our Demo had been pretty much stalking the thing the entire day and had made it practically a non-issue. But it managed and was raining paint on our command post; I really thought we were in for it. Pretty much no way to kill it and given the area it was operating in, there wasn't really enough cover to get people to hammer the kill box. </div> <bR> <div> -So when some crazy guy suddenly did a Death-or-Glory charge straight at the thing with grenades in each hand, I kinda figured he'd be walking off with a couple welts. The gunner on the tank started yelling 'you're out', but the guy just reared back and let fly. Two thunks later, the ref called the tank out, and after a bit of protest and once it made clear that the crazy SOB was actually the enemy General and it takes a headshot to put one down, they admitted defeat. Crowning moment of awesome. </div> <bR> <div> -And on a side note, whoever it was that tossed the grenade after the tank was killed and had bad enough aim to hit me . . .</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>SPUD:</B></I></div> <div> - The Surrender: I am reconning Flag #3 as we are attacking it, about to take control of it AGAIN. A RED player silently walks up behind me with his gun down; he points to his RED armband and says nothing other than "I'm RED". I proceed to shoot him in the leg and call him out. (Of course, he proceeds to keep shooting our players and claiming he "surrendered me", but I did not hear a surrender offer and I didn't say surrender. The ref called all the BLUE players live and sent the RED on his way.) </div> <bR> <div> - Friendly Fire: Jeremy and I are taking the FAR left tape to cutoff flanking REDs. I get taken out early. On my way back, Jeremy says he is on the tape still. However, I see a figure moving towards the BLUE position. I shoot at it and it ducks under cover. Jeremy again warns me on the radio he has just enountered some shots. Ignoring him, I try to take the OPFOR at his six. I get a complete drop on the OPFOR, and proud as heck, I light the person up. The person calls themself out and turns around to see who shot at him... MY BAD, I just took Jeremy out. Then, after head slapping myself, I give up my position and get taken out by the REAL OPFOR.... </div> <bR> <div> - Call of Desperation: I am holding my ground reconning Flag #3. There has been no action for at least 45 minutes, so I am by myself, when all of a sudden, I see enemy grouping on the top of the hill. Desperate for some support, I frantically call over the radio. In the meantime, the RED force must have had no clue where I was, because I proceeded to one-shot the entire attacking force. By the time my backup came, there was no one left... </div> <bR> <div> - Mini-Me and Jeremy kick butt: Once again, on Flag #3, we are being stonewalled by the RED team. Even with TSSOC as our attack force, neither side seems to be advance. Then come Jeremy and Mini-Me (I believe Mini-Me still had only his pump gun). They never stopped to pass "GO", they trucked up and OVER the hill taking everything out in the way. They, double handedly, took out and cleared the entire enemy force...</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <I><B>In attendance:</B></I>  Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, LegMan, Mini-Me, Two-Gun, Rolo, and Honu, with guests, Jeremy (Knight Stalkers), and CAM (SR) and his brother.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="december_13th_2009"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>December 13th, 2009</B></div> <div> "Battle of the Bulge VI" Scenario Game</div> <div> Outdoor Adventure Paintball, Bowie, MD</div> <div> <I>by:  Stephen "Sabot Ranger" Barger</I></div> <bR> <div> On December 13th 2009 Outdoor Adventures Bowie, Maryland hosted their 42d and likely final paintball scenario game, The Battle of the Bulge VI.  One of OA's most popular scenarios, BOTB replicates Hitler's 1944 final surprise offensive breaking the silence of the harsh winter snows with in hopes of survival for the 3rd Reich.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> Scenario Paintball Team braved the wintry elements to take part in this historic “final battle” supporting the US 101st Airborne Division from the city of Bastogne.</div> <div> December 16, 1944 and December 13, 2009 are both dates in history that began under eerily similar circumstances. December 1944 was one of the coldest months in decades in Europe. Two opposing sides sat across the Ardennes forest from each other awaiting the outcome of a sustained conflict. Armies historically pause in the winter to recover, reserve their sparse battle supplies and prepare for the spring offensive season. In the winter of 1944 the German Army was hoping to delay its annihilation.  </div> <div> Although decades apart there are similarities between Bowie and the Ardennes.  December 2009 began as the wettest month in Maryland after a long summer drought. The winter cold was rapidly moving in. Rain fell incessantly sometimes sprinkling but usually in heavy showers. Ironically, Outdoor Adventures Bowie the oldest and arguably most successful paintball field in Maryland, has been in a long legal battle for its very existence against new homeowners living just across the fence line. This day's Battle of the Bulge would be just as historical in relation to paintball as its namesake was in war. A final battle- no real winners- only survivors and the vanquished.</div> <div> As is customary for <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> despite the climate we deployed as loyal players in support of the US side and Outdoor Adventures. Spud and Rolo used Sabot's house as a rally point the evening prior in order to assure an early arrival and set up of the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>command post. That ended up being an excellent strategy because long before registration opened the parking lot and tent sites were full.  The rain initially fell softly and continuously but increased as the morning's preparations continued. Like the Ardennes, the OA parking lot, registration, chronograph and paint areas became a bog of mud and ankle deep rain. Satsuma's Revenge occupied the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>CP and appreciated the heat and protection from the rain. </div> <div> Pods and hoppers full, paint grenades and backup pods lined up along the wall supports, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>,  SR and about 20 others initially occupied the castle as the Battling Bastards of Bastogne, the US 101st  Airborne. As the German general approached the castle under white flag shouts of, “Nuts, Nuts, Nuts” the now famous US response to offerings of surrender, rang out. With a bang the battle began. The 101st valiantly held the attackers off with enfilading fire by the hundreds. After about 20 minutes the Germans moved under the intense cover of smoke to the outer walls where the castle defenders were not allowed to fire down upon them. </div> <div> One by one the defenders honorably took the long walk out and eventually the Germans held the fort. Mini-Me conquered the rain and arrived at the CP to support the fight as did Honu and a guest.  Sabot battled on until his paint supply was exhausted and he was covered head to toe in mud and soaked to the bone. Spud battled on and on until the rain and cold were too much and his paint and air were also exhausted. Honu was lost and presumed captured early in the battle. Rumor has it his employer demanded his return! Rolo and Mini-me also continued the battle until there was just no option left and took the honorable withdrawal. Nobody really knows who won or lost the battles or scenario. There are points available somewhere. But the real loss is of a great local affordable, friendly quality paintball park. </div> <div> This was indeed a sad day. OA's Battle of the Bulge is one of paintball's most popular and fun scenarios at one of the most fun paintball parks on the east coast. As always the paint was superlative despite the horrid weather. The players all gave their best and played hard and honest. The air set up was faultless. The BBQ catering is mouth watering and affordable. Preregistration, registration, paint pickup, chrono and scenario safety brief and giveaways are outstanding.  But because of urban sprawl, homeowners who moved into the area knowing the paintball park was right there and has been for years, now will likely win the legal battle to shut down OA Bowie. </div> <div> Every member of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> has several OA scenario patches prominently displayed on our <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" ><I> </I></FONT>sweatshirts. No patch will be more precious than the potentially ` last BOTB at OA Bowie patch.”  If we are really lucky these patches will not become collectors items but just one more in a long string of OA Bowie patches to come. Hopefully, OA will win the final (legal) battle and not come out of the fight bankrupt defending our right to have fun. </div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="october_3rd_4th_2009"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>October 3rd-4th, 2009</B></div> <div> The Russian Front '09 @ HSI-USANA</div> <div> A  Phenix Paintball 2-Day Production</div> <div> Pittsgrove, NJ</div> <bR> <div> First and foremost, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia </B></I></FONT>would like to welcome our newest member, Vincent “Honu” Young.  Not only does he bring the wisdom of age (he is now our eldest member), but also brings cunningness and nighttime prowess.  We are proud to call him a teammate.  Welcome aboard Honu.</div> <bR> <div> The weekend would start on Friday morning with the long three hour drive through quite a few tolls; however, the drive would be event free.  LegMan, Goofa, and Spud would be the first to arrive.  They quickly scoped out their campsite and swiftly began setting it up.  With the loud hum of the power lines overhead, they could feel the 60 hertz buzzing through the tent poles. They knew this would be an electrifying weekend (sorry, I couldn't resist the pun).  Sabot Ranger, Two-Gun, and Rolo quickly followed and setup their gear as well.  After a quick walk of the field, their stomachs told them it was time for dinner.  Normally, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>would stay at camp to eat, but this time they would venture out for some REAL food.  This was an adventure unto itself.  They all picked a buffet and after following their GPS's, they ended up in a residential neighborhood at a private residence.  Guessing that the homeowners wouldn't be too pleased with a bunch of strangers asking for dinner, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>settled on The Kountry Kitchen just a few miles away from the field.  The service was great and the food was like momma's home cookin'.  Afterwards, they headed back to camp and went to bed, readying for the next days battle.</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="38100c00.jpg" border=0 width="256" height="192" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="10" VSPACE="10">The next day started out like any other morning at the paintball field.  Getting up early and preparing for the days battles.  This time, Sabot Ranger would do the honors of preparing our morning breakfast so that we were all well fed.  For some reason, things went like clock work.  For the first time, we were all ready and “waiting” for the start of the game briefing, which was about as unorganized as can be.  Honu made his presence bright and early and was ready for battling.</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>OMM </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >took the field and asked our general for our orders.  Our general, Jester, of Silent Nightmare, knew what we liked to do and knew we were good at it, so he didn't hesitate to tell us to take the east flank and set up deep in the brush to thwart off any enemy attack.  As is our style, we quickly obliged.  Since Mini-Me was not present at the event, Spudcrazy took point, followed Rolo, Honu, and Two-Gun, while Sabot Ranger, LegMan, and Goofa took up the inner flank.  After what seemed to be a very long time, Spud and Honu met up with the OPFOR.  Digging in, Spudcrazy and Honu worked in tandem with each, other picking off OPFOR right and left, while the rest of the team wreaked havoc and cleared out opposition as well.  At one point, it was overheard, “Where the hell are those guys?  Paint seems to be coming out of no where.”</FONT></div> <bR> <div> For the better part of the morning, Team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> had a hard time grouping due to some very conscious jamming efforts on the communication channel.  It seems the OPFOR knew exactly what frequency <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>was on and every time contact was attempted, the squawk alarm sounded.  However, at lunch, we were able to switch channels and regroup.</div> <bR> <div> Throughout the day, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>took to the fight and conquered almost every obstacle in their way.  They found themselves working well with teams like Kent Island Sea Monkeys, STC and Silent Nightmare, however, when it came time to hit the brush, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>was all alone.</div> <bR> <div> Admittedly, before the game started, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> and KISM thought it was going to be a blowout game for our side (Russian).  Most of the players walking around the campground seemed to be taped blue, which were the German players.  However, that couldn't have been anything farther from the truth.  By days end, the Russians owned the field and the game.  At one point, the Russian side was so heavily encamped on the German CP that <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>volunteered to back up and retreat to get the game back on track, but this didn't seem to help as we kept on marching right back in to enemy territory.</div> <bR> <div> Dinner break ensued and some of the larger teams, like the 13th Legionnaires were asked to switch sides to German in the hopes of bringing the game back to even.</div> <bR> <div> As is SOP, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>decided to forgo the night game with the exception of our newest member, Honu, who took out his night vision and headed to the field.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>was asked to be night paint fodder, so LegMan and Rolo gave it a go, but that was short lived as they wanted to head back and enjoy the comic relief that always seems to be present at the<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Old Man Militia </B></I></FONT>camp.</div> <bR> <div> As the morning sun rose, so did team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>.  Breakfast was had and a quick players briefing before game on.  Again, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>was tasked with holding the right flank and digging in.  However, this time we would purposely split up into two smaller units.  Again, Spud, Rolo, and Honu would take the far flank, while Sabot, LegMan, Two-Gun, and Goofa would cut in to the inner flank.  And just like the first day's battle, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>succeeded with their orders.</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="38e2ce30.jpg" border=0 width="300" height="227" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Sunday's battle was a little more even due to a few teams switching sides, however, the Russian offensive was too much for the weakened and disheartened German army.  By the time the final battle came around, the Russian's had already secured the game in points, so the final battle was just a means to an end.</FONT></div> <bR> <div> After the game, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>quickly broke camp and gathered their “lazy boy” chairs for the awards ceremony.  As was suspected, the Russian's slaughtered the German in points, however, hats off to the Germans, as the vast majority of them stuck it out and never gave up, all the way through the final battle.  Team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> was honored to receive a combined <A HREF="awards_mvt__the_russian_front_2009.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U>MVT/Sportsmanship award</U></A> for their relentless playing skills and willingness to do the job that very few want to do.  General Jester made a point of calling <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>out on the fact that whenever he would ask some one or some team to take up post in the prickery thorns, that it was <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> first and only to volunteer.  We were proud to serve under Jester and told him we'd answer the call anytime he needed us.</div> <bR> <div> To summarize our trip, the game was great, the paint was fantastic, and the air was always full, but the producers could have trained or made clear the rules to the refs a little better and the players briefing could have been a bit more thorough (it seemed rules were being made up on the fly).  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>will definitely visit this field again in the future.</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>In attendance:</B></I>  Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, LegMan, Goofa, Two-Gun, Rolo, and Honu</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="august_26th_2009"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>August 26th, 2009</B></div> <div> Special Engagement</div> <div> Army Senior NCO Field Training Exercise</div> <div> (<I>Written by:</I> Stephen "Sabot Ranger" Barger)</div> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia </B></I></FONT><I><B>Selected to Train Army Senior Non-Commissioned Officer School</B></I><IMG SRC="3632cf20.jpg" border=0 width="300" height="242" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="4" VSPACE="4"></div> <div>                 Camp Fretterd, Reisertown Md- It is an oddly secure place if you have never noticed it; high black fences, armed guards wearing parks service and contract guard uniforms. Its stated purpose is `home to the Maryland Emergency Management Agency.” The guards are atypical of the average contractor gate guard force; remarkably `buff' and intense with a propensity for thumbing their holstered Glocks. Sabot Ranger, Leg Man and Mini-me sat uncomfortably at the gate awaiting the van of Soldiers to escort us onto the compound as <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>had one again been selected to support an Army Field Training Exercise (FTX). </div> <div> The U.S. Army Signal Center Non-Commissioned Officer Academy at Ft. Meade asked<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> to provide the opposing force (OPFOR) for their Advanced NCO Course FTX held 26 August 2009 at Camp Fretterd, Md. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>'s reputation as a safe, well trained, and tactically savvy paintball team led to this request to support the training of approximately 20 senior Army NCOs.  Sergeant first class Terrence Hayes, Signal Corps Academy Senior Instructor had read about OMMs training support in the Ft. Meade newspaper, <I>Soundoff!</I>(for which the author, Melanie Casey, won Army Civilian journalist of the Year award).</div> <div> <I><B>OMM</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >s mission was to replicate a small insurgent force capable of conducting raids, ambushes, hit and run attacks and employing other guerilla tactics. The training would take place in both urban and wooded training areas.  Because the scenario will be used for future NCOA classes the specific scenarios and training objectives cannot be released some of the guidance to </FONT><I><B>OMM </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >included,</FONT><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" ><B><IMG SRC="36f0cbe0.jpg" border=0 width="268" height="190" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="4" VSPACE="4"></B></FONT></div> <div>    “<B>OPFOR must attack using guerilla tactics. Defeat the students at all costs. Fight off the students for the first half of the battle, however, allow them to complete their objective. Engage [the NCOs].  You will be given two Soldiers to act as the POWs. Have them tied down and laying next to a tree. Upon hearing the students approach begin taunting the POWs and firing, so the students know your general location. Make this last battle difficult for them. Employ any and all tactics here. Engage until you hear the whistle for Endex. (End of Exercise)"</B></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>was teamed with Army master sergeant Michael Lavigne whom <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>opposed during the June 2008 FTX. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>also led four Army Soldiers who were in a `snowbird' status. The phrase `snowbirds' is Army slang for Soldiers who have completed basic combat or other training and are awaiting a follow on specialized course to begin. Snowbirds typically perform administrative duties, maintain equipment or weapons and `pull details'.  The Soldiers detailed to perform OPFOR duty were placed under the command of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>and were absolutely outstanding, a pleasure to work with and an honor to lead.  They were also very happy to be <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" ><IMG SRC="36b2cc40.jpg" border=0 width="300" height="196" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="4" VSPACE="4"></FONT>paintballing and not answering phones and clerking in the company headquarters. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>actively participated in the After Action Review (AAR) process and provided the enemy mission statement and plan of action. By far the most exciting and rewarding training was an indoor “shoot house”.  Sabot Ranger's previous experience proved a valuable tool for the NCOs and <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> rehearsing urban area defend and attack tactics.</div> <div> During the lunch break the instructors shared the infamous “MRE” or Meal-ready-to-eat field rations which Mini-Me and Leg Man particularly seemed to enjoy. Leg-Man said of the meals “enjoying the MRE's brings back fond memories of when my father, LTC Ferdinand Barger, would bring home K-rations from his field exercises for his sons to enjoy. I must admit, though, that the MRE's are far better than the old, paper carton and tin can meals we eagerly tore into when he brought them home to us.”</div> <div> At the conclusion of the exercise sergeant first class Terrence Hayes, thanked <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> for our performance, professionalism and assistance. “it would not have been possible to have such valuable training without <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> here today.  This heat made it very tough for everybody and we thank you for being out here in it with us.” To which Mini-me replied, “ It felt good to go out and help you train and it's the least we could do. Summing it up for the team, Legman echoed all our sentiments, “ Anytime that I can participate with helping out our military is a great and humbling experience for me. Of course, running and training with the Soldiers who defend and fight for our freedom is a small part that I can do to show my appreciation for all that they do daily.”</div> <div> <A HREF="awards_ftx___awards_2009.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U><I><B>Certificates of Appreciation</B></I></U></A></div> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="july_25th_2009"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>July 25th, 2009</B></div> <div> The Black Arrow</div> <div> A Splatbrothers Classics Series 8-Hour Scenario</div> <div> Hopwell, VA</div> <bR> <div> <B><U>In attendance</U></B>:  Spudcrazy, SabotRanger, Mini-Me, Mamba, Compulsion, Aegis, and Rolo.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="march_30th_31st_2009"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>March 30th-31st, 2009</B></div> <div> NJ Nam'09 @ HSI-USANA</div> <div> A  Phenix Paintball 2-Day Production</div> <div> Pittsgrove, NJ</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > extended our playing field experience north as we traveled to Pittsgrove, New Jersey for Phenix Paintball productions' scenario NJ Nam '09 at HSI- USANA.   The theme for this year's scenario was “The Battle of Ia Drang Valley.”</FONT></div> <bR> <div>  </div> <div> This was <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>'s first time attending the NJ Nam two-day scenario as a team, and frankly, we had no idea what to expect.   This game had a large player contingent (600+) with a format that was completely different than we normally play.  There was also a non-combatant third party (civilians) that was portrayed by our friends from Dead By Dawn.  One difference was there were no medics; however, there was a roving MASH unit for each side.  The MASH unit concept is a great method for re-generating players and keeping the game going on large fields.  Except for the instantly deadly `head shot', all body shots were considered walking wounded.  Instead of players yelling `medic, medic' the wounded evacuated themselves back to the MASH unit consisting of a large red cross on white banner and a medic.  Wounded registered their player number, wiped off the old paint then walked back into play.  The MASH unit had to be defended and could be eliminated with a head shot to the medic, but could also be maneuvered away from enemy attacks.  The MASH could be brought as far forward as the medic or general felt was safe.  Head shots had to go all the way back to their respective CP to regenerate during an open insertion window.  The playing field was large and the walk back to the CPs was no small jaunt.  The walk of shame back to the parking area for more paint or air was even more grueling, so the MASH concept is a great method for keeping players on the field and preventing heat injuries.</div> <bR> <div> The missions were basic and “cut & dry” with no force number requirements.  And best of all, there was a “score board”.  Every time a mission was completed, the score board was updated, so there was no question as to how the score was calculated.  The missions had set point values.  </div> <bR> <div> <I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > members managed to take Friday off from their respective workplaces and converged by many, many routes on HSI USANA-the location of the game.  The facility is an active SWAT and police training facility.  (None of us has yet figured out what HSI-USANA means!)</FONT></div> <bR> <div> We requested to camp alongside our team mentors and friends, Dead By Dawn, to share chow facilities and their head chef, Vader.  Thanks to DBD we had a premier camping spot close to the insertion points.  Vader brought his always extraordinary field culinary expertise, so food and drink was plentiful and tasty for the weekend.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>teammate, Zeylor, played loyally with his primary team, DBD, as an unarmed civilian, but then joined <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>for the final battle.</div> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >After establishing our Command Post, complete with map overlays and satellite imagery acetated for weather by the </FONT><I><B>OMM </B></I><I><B>Young Guns</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >, we reconnoitered the field.</FONT></div> <bR> <div> In addition to not knowing the field operations at all, this was going to be quite a challenge for Team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>.</div> <div> <IMG SRC="33e24c10.jpg" border=0 width="292" height="193" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="3" VSPACE="3"></div> <div> The field was shaped like a `C' with a major chokepoint right in the middle of the field.  At the outset the VC CP was in the northern portion of the `C' and the US was in the southern portion.  The big hole in the middle of the field was just that-a big hole (water filled sand borrow pit) surrounded by cut trees.  The game's opening objective/mission was for either side to gain and retain control of Firebase Charlie, which was located right at the center of the chokepoint.  Since our CP (American) was located somewhat closer to this first objective, the American's easily overran the objective and continued to push the VC on their side of the field. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>'s task for this event was to maintain possession of the northern tapeline running along the length of the `C', along with Team Thunderstruck and TSSOC.  This task was easily accomplished until we hit the major road that divides the battlefield.  The road was sunken and bordered by a six foot berm on either side.  The VC were heavily fortified and entrenched on the backside of the berm.  Despite many requests to storm the berm, no one would take up the task.  Finally, both LegMan and Spudcrazy were low on paint and air so they didn't have anything to lose by making the charge.  Three, two, one…  LegMan and Spudcrazy somehow made it to the top of the berm to find no less than 20 VC on the other side.  Spud and Legman took out at least half of them before being eliminated.  One VC actually said “You guys are NUTS”.  Turning around, the two <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>were accompanied by only a <I>single </I>American player, Norbert of Team Thunderstruck.  However, that opened the floodgates at the berm and finally, the American charge proceeded.  Most of the day found the US fighters pushing the VC back further and further into their own territory.  There was next to nothing the VC could do to push the mighty US army back.  </div> <div>  </div> <bR> <div> HSI-USANA has been doing great work on their deliberate burn plans.  There was very little scrub and tree dead fall but the whole place was covered in knee high baby oaks.  Sabot, despite his recent back surgery, just couldn't resist low crawling.  He literally low crawled within 5 feet of a VC bunker.  Unfortunately the VC saw Sabot first and took him out; but only after Sabot had eliminated several key VC snipers.  As Sabot put it, “The field was low crawling heaven.”  To make the point, Spud came back to a place covered with these baby oaks (after being eliminated) and couldn't find any of the US players.  He then went to high ground and looked down and there we were, about 30 US players low crawling up to within yards of the bad guys.  </div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="33d93d10.jpg" border=0 width="147" height="209" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="3" VSPACE="3">Sabot and Rolo, supported by MiniMe and Mamba, did one great low crawl where they got up to within 20 yards of three different bad guy positions.  Each <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>member took turns poking out one side of a tree or shrub, shooting one of the VC positions from the flank, and then hiding again in the scrub brush.  The VC had no idea where we were or who was hitting them out.  They'd continue to slide back and come out the other side and shoot at the other player position.  Sabot alone got 14 kills.  They finally figured out where he was but still were never able to eliminate him, he'd just slide back-combat rolled to another tree and started all over again with Mamba and/or Rolo.</div> <bR> <div> Despite some of the massive teams that were at this event, it seemed like every point of the US spears were led by the smaller teams, while the larger, more known teams were either in the back, directing charges, or back at the CP laying claim to the charges.  It was rare that <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> saw the backs of other US players.  More than not, we were out front, low crawling through the brush or running head first, making kamikaze charges.  Splatbrothers teams, Assault & Battery, Mosby Raiders, and VA Rush were amongst the other small teams that were always in the front of the pack only to clear the way for the masses.  One such push found teammates, Rolo, Mamba, Spud, and Sabot, along with a handful of walk-on's and small team contingents low crawling and slowly pushing the VC base.  The entire platoon was stealth and the VC had no idea we were there.  We were within 25 meters of the VC base before one of the larger American teams decided to roll up our backs screaming and yelling “Let's get `em”.  We tried to keep silence, but to no avail.  All hell opened up and our surprise attack was thwarted.  Nevertheless, because of the American's sheer numbers and overwhelming attack force, we still managed to kill the base and clear the area to the point of being pushed back off the base by the referee's.</div> <bR> <div> The majority of Saturdays play was the same.  American's totally annihilating the VC at every aspect of the game.  A 2-hour stand down for dinner commenced and Vader blessed us with boneless Buffalo Hot Wings, Brats, burgers, beans, and salad.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>and DBD camaraderie and jokes (usually at Spud's expense) commenced as is normal operating procedure and fun was had by all.  </div> <bR> <div> The night game started with a plan that <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, led by <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>friend Honu at point with his Gen2 night vision, would set up an ambush at a crossroad just shy of midfield.  This would prove to be futile and useless as the major battle (up until the time we exited the field at 2200hrs) would be held at a single skirmish line, midfield.  Since all of our goggles were fogging and we did not have the night vision to compete, we left the field to get rest for the next day's battle.  Honu, however, stayed on the field the entire time and help the US with the night dominance as well.  The VC did have one bright spot in the evening's repertoire, they managed to overrun the American base and barrel tag our general.  The night game ended with the VC only netting a few more points than the Americans.  However, the Americans were still way ahead in points overall.</div> <bR> <div> Sunday morning started with a heavy rain.  Our camping buddies, DBD headed to the field early, as civilians, to setup as armed VC at Firebase Charlie.  The opening battle of the morning would be fought at the Firebase with the armed civilians causing havoc.  </div> <div> <IMG SRC="34004c90.jpg" border=0 width="260" height="201" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="3" VSPACE="3"></div> <div> For Sunday's play, the game command switched command post sides in an attempt to even the playing field.  This was quite fun, but frustrating at the same time.  Since it was pouring rain, most everyone, spent their time looking through the bottom of their lenses trying to shoot anything that moved.  I've never seen so many headshots in a single battle.  Nevertheless, the sky opened up and the day turned absolutely gorgeous.  This would be a true test to see if CP location gave the Americans a distinct advantage on day one of the battle.  This theory would be proven false.  For the second day in a row, the American forces dominated the playing field.  Unfortunately, quite a few VC players did not return to fight another day, whether it be the discouragement of being beaten up on the day prior, or the morning rain keeping them from entering the field.  However, those that stayed in the fight fought gallantly and should be proud of their efforts.</div> <bR> <div> The end of regulation play concluded with the Americans with such a dominating lead in points that the final battle would make no difference in the outcome of the game.  This conclusion led to far fewer VC taking the field for the final battle.  Once underway, the American's quickly and devastatingly overtook the VC to the point of backing them up to their insertion point.  The game had to be called 15 minutes early due to lack of competitiveness.  Hats off to all the VC forces that stayed on the field to the bitter end.  They got their clocks knocked off, but still fought on and that is to be commended.</div> <bR> <div> For the most part, play was more honest than typical and everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves despite the unevenness of the score.  As always, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> enjoyed camp life with the buddies on team Dead By Dawn.  We were able to swing by and see some of the teams we used to sling paint with frequently, such as Assault&Battery and PsychWard.  Unfortunately, we did not get to stop by Kent Island Sea Monkey's camp, but we did run into their tank on the field, quite a number of times.  They were one of the few VC that stayed in the fight until the final horn blew.  Nobody would have expected anything less from them.</div> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" ><IMG SRC="35c77df0.jpg" border=0 width="119" height="223" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="3" VSPACE="3"></FONT>All in all, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> seems to be improving more and more as a cohesive and integrated team.  We are proud of the effect we had on this game.  Unbeknownst to our general, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> was the dominating force on the section of field we were sent to cover.  It was <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> that ferreted out the VC helicopter that was coming to blow up the American base on Sunday and it was <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> that initiated the charge on the north tapeline berm on Saturday that enabled the forces to break through the VC stronghold.  It was <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> that prevented the VC from making ANY movements on the tapeline.  One VC player was heard to exclaim, “We just gave up on attacking the tapeline.  It was easier just to go up the middle!”  For such a small team, we have proven that strength in numbers isn't always the key to success.  We are having fun in large part due to having `stepped up our game'.  We can attack, defend, run missions, counter attack, and move like a team.</div> <bR> <div> NJNam `09 was worth the drive for the change of venue, meeting and playing with other teams and learning new rules.  The Phenix paintball prep was thorough.  The paint was GREAT!  The `cheapo' was Stinger paint that had no dimples, shot straight and no breaks! (I wish some other PARCs could say the same about their paint.)  The player orientations were `concise' to say the least.  The giveaways were even more brief and largely consisted of vendor gratuities.  Awards were the usual MVT, MVP.  (I can't understand why more producers don't provide more recognition such as Most Formidable Opponent, MV Young Gun, etc.  For the cost of one ink jet certificate they really could expand their team and player loyalty, marketing and publicity.)</div> <bR> <div> This review can't be finished without giving a special shout out to Vader of DBD for his impeccable food and selflessness for preparing it for everyone at camp.  Likewise, to Zeylor, for securing us such a sweet camping spot.  And to the rest of Dead By Dawn for being such entertaining camping buddies….  Thanks.</div> <bR> <div> <B><U>In attendance</U></B>:  Spudcrazy, SabotRanger, LegMan, Goofa, Mini-Me, Zeylor, GMan, Siege, Mamba, Rolo, and special guest, Honu.</div> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>April 15th, 2009</B></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> is please to announce the newest member of the team, <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/rolo" title = "Rolo" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/rolo" title"><U>Scott "Rolo" Rold</U></A>.  Rolo brings with him years of paintball experience as well as the discipline and integrity of a U.S. Marine.  Stationed in Quantico, VA, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>'s first experience with Rolo was in an ambush at <A HREF="#november_1st___2nd_2008" TITLE="Latest News"><U>Splatbrothers - War of the Worlds III, 26-Hour Scenario,</U></A> in which Rolo sat with a few <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>members, VERY PATIENTLY waiting for the opposition to cross our path.  The OPFOR never did cross us, but in more times that one, Rolo ended up saving our backs when we were in compromising positions.  He is a fast player that will do anything needed to advance the teams mission and strategic advances.  We look forward to lots of awesome battles with Rolo at our side or leading in the battlefront.<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>March 9th, 2009</B></div> <div> <I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > is mentioned, along with a picture of Spud's backside (no, not the butt, the back of his tac vest), along with partner team Satsuma's Revenger in the March issue of the online magazine PaitballX3.  </FONT></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> Click here to see the full article:  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/Press/OAStalingrad_PX3Mag.pdf" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/Press/OASta"><U><U>http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/Press/OAStalingrad_PX3Mag.pdf</U></U></A></FONT></div> <bR> <div> <B> <A NAME="march_1_2009"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>March 1, 2009</B></div> <div> "Leningrad Siege Operation Barbarossa" - Paintball Wholesalers Scenario</div> <div> Paintball - Sportland, Frederick, MD</div> <div> <I>Written by:  Sabot Ranger</I></div> <bR> <div> The day opened cold and overcast with newly fallen snow covering the ground.  A day, much like the name sake of the battle for which the paintball scenario was named-Stalingrad!  The most significant difference for this day was not that it was Etek's, Ion's, and Tippman's instead of Mauser's and Kalashnikovs, the difference was IT WAS THE FIRST DAY OF MARCH and temperatures with highs barely reaching freezing!  To top it off, a new four inch layer of snow covered the ground.</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>Old Man Militia </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >chose this day of course to conduct a reconnaissance of the Paintball-Sportland field in Fredericksburg, MD for their scenario “Leningrad”.</FONT></div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="32c13e20.jpg" border=0 width="275" height="226" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="10" VSPACE="10"></div> <div> Departing from various points across Virginia and Maryland, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>linked up with Satsuma's Revenge to support the Red general representing the Russians.  Sabot conducted a link up with long time friend and recent Iraq returnee, Army captain Dave Bolender.  Enroute, they observed no less than three overturned vans and two curb kissers spun out in the snow and ice.  Team captain Spud led the link up from Virginia.  The <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>recon party of Spud, Sabot, Compulsion and guests Dave and Scotto arrived with plenty of time to establish the now famous <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>CP, get air, chrono, chat with the Red Commander, Steve (Kent Island Sea Monkey's), and other teams.  We also took the opportunity to look in awe at the hill that would become the nemesis of lesser men.  Like so many fields in Virginia and Maryland, the paintball field occupies the steep hills and marshy valleys between good pastureland.  Sportland's walk to the air, paint and parking lot makes Hogback hills look like a pleasantly sloped driveway.</div> <bR> <div> After a VERY SHORT safety brief, 'scenario' orientation, and introduction, the teams headed down to the field.  The field is somewhat narrow but long with plenty of manmade bunkers, shelters, plywood houses and brush.  On the starting gun, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>and Satsuma's Revenge headed out to attack south to north using the eastern boundary tapeline.  Moving quickly, we established a stronghold a just beyond midfield.  The blue forces could not attack effectively.  However, due to the heavy brush in the red sector, it was difficult to eliminate blue players.  In order to break the stalemate, Sabot, Spud, Compulsion, Dave, and Scotto led a deliberate attack using a well practiced over watch or `leapfrogging' in layman's terms.  The woods echoed with shouts of “Moving”-“Set”-“Move up”- “Moving“, “2 out”, “Move”, “2 more out”- and finally -“CLEAR”.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>effectively rolled up the entire right flank and held the high ground above the blue stronghold which was in fact, very strong.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>'s unfamiliarity with the field and aggressive “lead, follow, or get out of my way” style exposed us to a new obstacle.  The heart of the blue turf was comprised of multiple buildings, plywood walls with mutual cover, and dozens of blue players 'holed up' waiting for the assault.  After leading multiple charges, taking the long walk, and I do mean long, and quickly rejuvenating, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>re-entered the fight to inspire, direct and lead charges and movement. Sabot and Spud finished the day with hoarse throats. The Red walk-ons have to be complimented. They were more than willing to follow and support aggressive leaders into the attack.</div> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B><IMG SRC="33116d90.jpg" border=0 width="278" height="217" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="10" VSPACE="10"></B></I></FONT>The day continued in much the same manner.  When <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>was on the field, the red team advanced, eliminated blue players and took ground.  When <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>left the field for paint, air, and our requisite nap, it seemed red lost just as much ground.  There was another team we could not identify on the blue side that inspired and led them to fight valiantly making it a good battle.</div> <bR> <div> As is custom with team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, we were in constant communication with our general, running and gunning where ever he deemed necessary.  At on point, late in the game, our general and his command staff were being bogged down by a lone sniper buried deep in what seemed to be a thicket.  The general quickly asked <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> to flush out the shooter so that the general could proceed with his mission.  Doing what seems commonplace for <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Milita</B></I></FONT>, Sabot, Spud, Dave, and Scotto quickly bee lined it into the thick brush and started to search out the opposition.  Spudcrazy and Sabot Ranger quickly located the culprit and informed the rest of the team.  The culprit was using dead-zone netting as a cover (which should have been a rules violation in any other game), so even though he could clearly see us, he could not fire on us without totally exposing himself to being shot.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>used that knowledge to our advantage.  While Sabot, Dave, and Scotto held the defensive position, ready to move in if necessary, Spud used the “bunker” rule (rather than physically shooting the player, the aggressor only needs to yell `bunker, bunker' as he approaches the bunkered player, and as long as the aggressor is not eliminated by a paintball, the bunkered player is eliminated) to eliminate the blue player.  This cleared the way for a full out red team offensive on the blue teams' rejuvenation point and CP.</div> <bR> <div> Overall, this was a very fun day.  The weather likely led to low numbers.  The field had not hosted a scenario in more than 18 months, so there were some growing pains with referees, rules, scenario play, props, and reinsert and rejuvenation processes.   But the paint was quality, the field was challenging, the lunch chow was tasty, fresh and inexpensive.   Like some other paintball fields the cheap prices meant no prize drawings and few teams attending, but it was fun nevertheless.  Players seemed to play with integrity, honesty, and take the walk when earned.  Air was plentiful and filled 4500s to 4500, although air was only available at the top of the hill.</div> <bR> <div> General Steve of the Kent Island Sea Monkeys honored team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> with a <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/Leningrad2009/MVT.pdf" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/Leningrad20"><U>Most Valuable Team</U></A> award as well as issuing a <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/Leningrad2009/KISMLetter.pdf" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/Leningrad20"><U>Letter of Gratitude </U></A>for service and integrity.  We thank him very much and have told him we'd serve under his command anytime.  Given the adversities of the day, in regard to general production issues, this general lead with grace and dignity.  Major kudos.</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>OMM </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >will likely return to this field again for a scenario. </FONT></div> <bR> <div> <B><U>In attendance</U></B>:  Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, and Compulsion.  </div> <div> <B><U>Guest of OMM</U></B>:  Dave Bolender and Scotto.</div> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="january_25_2009"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>January 25, 2009</B></div> <div> "Battle for Stalingrad - 3" Scenario Game</div> <div> Outdoor Adventure Paintball, Bowie, MD</div> <bR> <div> The weekend started with what is now customary; camaraderie building and general fraternizing at Sabot Rangers headquarter on Friday night.  With some liquid libations and the hi-def boob-tube, Sabot, Spud, G-Man, Siege, and Rolo were able to relax and chill out before the next day's game of the Battle for Stalingrad-3. There was some practice with Sabot's new Paintball for Wii but that quickly degraded to watching Transformers for inspiration!</div> <bR> <div> After a great night's rest, the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>advance party headed out to Outdoor Adventures early to get the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>base camp set up.  Migraine, Shadow, Shadow and his buddy, Compulsion, Mamba, our newest full member, Aegis, and team friend, Honu showed up shortly after ready to play.  Sabot brought his neighbor and Homeland Defender, Steve Foreback aka `Squirrel Man”.  We were met by our new comrade's in arms, Team Satsuma's Revenge.</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > committed to supporting the Red side for the day.  Due to the cold temperatures, low 30s in the morning, there was plenty of room to pick our fights.  Most of the day found </FONT><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > tromping all over the field, holding flanks, leading and supporting attack missions as well as returning critical props.  Supporting the commander at the outset, our first mission was to take and hold the fuel depot.  With the usual aplomb </FONT><I><B>OMM </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >offered the front ranks to the sprinting Young Guns on the field then we moved out quickly and deliberately to the objective.  Forging all the way ahead, </FONT><I><B>OMM </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >secured the oil field, only to be slowly eliminated one by one with Sabot and his neighbor as the final holdouts before being overrun. </FONT></div> <div>  </div> <div> At one point the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>contingent GMan, Siege, Rolo, and Honu, led by Spudcrazy, Mini-me, and Mamba were able to advance well into enemy territory towards the enemy CP (so far that the ref stopped us from advancing further).  Between those seven, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>was picking off the enemy as fast as they were reinserting into the battle.  Eventually they were on to us, we were all running on minimal air and paint, and we got taken out.  At nearly the same time Sabot and Squirrel-man ended up holding the castle against a determined Blue force.  With only two red in the top floor, it became critical to hold the castle for points.  After reinserting, several of Satsuma's Revenge and walk-ons helped cover the windows.  Eventually, due to superior numbers and an en masse reinsert, Blue got a foothold in one corner, surged and forced the defenders out… well almost all the defenders.  Red had the top floor and one small corner.  With a walk-on in support, Sabot and Squirrel-Man conducted a well timed and expertly executed two-man-stack to eliminate all enemy on the bottom floor.  Sabot Ranger and others re-swarmed the bottom and the castle was safe throughout the final battle.  But alas Sabot and Squirrel-man took a hit and had to walk out.  Fortunately though, Sabot and Squirrel-man re-missioned to protect the red right flank against a possible tapeline attack.  These two held the entire right flank at the city using pop-up like whack-a-mole against nearly 20 Blue attackers during final battle.  They thought at least 5 guys were there and the ref was laughing his butt off when Sabot finally beat a hasty yet discreet rearward movement with only 100psi and 3 paintballs left.</div> <bR> <div> There were many <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>inspired pushes and flanking maneuvers, holding key terrain and sharing attacks and defenses with Satsuma's Revenge.  These guys are a great team to have on your flank or protecting your back!</div> <bR> <div> However, the day found <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>advancing numerous times and pushing back the overwhelming forces against our side.  In spite of having teams like Capital Offense on the opposing side, there was only a hand full of enemy players that would pose any kind of resistance to our Red forces.</div> <bR> <div> Satsuma's Revenge and <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, once again ran together as an allied and unstoppable force.  For one of the prop missions, Satsuma's Revenge and Team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>brought back more than half of the fuel containers to our general.  Spudcrazy even went as far as lending one of the Satsuma's Revenge members his LAW Rocket, with which that player went on to earn the Most Valuable Player from our general for his handiness and keen ability to put rockets on target and clear the way for the rest of our forces.</div> <bR> <div> All in all, another great day for paintball; the weather was great, the field conditions were decent, and the playing was fantastic.  Although not the 26-hour format we have been accustomed too, the OA games are becoming more and more favorable and we plan on lots of them this coming year.</div> <bR> <div> The first time playing in his <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> jersey, Aegis has once again proven why he is welcome addition to the team.  After what seems to be years playing with us, Aegis has finally agreed to join our posse of old men and young guns.  Aegis brings with him the skill of the old school players, often handling his pump marker, and the speed of a jaguar, making rushes that only he can make.  We are glad he has FINALLY decided to become a full member of our humble team.  Thanks Aegis.  We look forward to a future a one-shot eliminations from the crazed Aegis…</div> <bR> <div> Furthermore, Rolo continues to impress <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>with his supporting fire as well as his willingness to rush into the heat of battle with all odds against him.  We sincerely hope that he will soon join the legion of old men and young guns in our endeavor to advance as a team.</div> <bR> <div> <B>Attendees:</B></div> <div> <I><B>Old Mam Milita </B></I><I><B>:  </B></I>Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, Migraine, Shadow, GMan, Siege, Mamba, Compulsion and Aegis</div> <div> <I><B>Friends of OMM:</B></I><I>  </I> Rolo, Honu, Shadow's friend, Steve “Squirrel-man' Foreback.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="december_14th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>December 14th, 2008</B></div> <div> "Battle of the Bulge V" Scenario Game</div> <div> Outdoor Adventure Paintball, Bowie, MD</div> <bR> <div> It was kind of a last minute decision, so the only <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> members that could commit were Spudcrazy and Compulsion, however, friends Rabbit and Rolo were able to join us as well.  We decided to meet at Outdoor Adventure, in Bowie, MD around 0830.  Much to my surprise, when I arrived, precisely at 0830, the parking lot was already packed.  I tried to get hold of Compulsion early, only to find out he had primed his <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>gaseous weapon a bit too much and spent a bit of the morning at the local hotel degassing….</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="320c1c80.jpg" border=0 width="193" height="200" ALIGN="LEFT" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">As standard at OA, the pre-registration line was long, but ran smoothly as the game patches, paint, and air bands were handed out.  Compulsion and I linked up with our general, Beefysmoker of Nemesis, and got our task which was to make sure that the American (BLUE) flag was to stay in our possession for the entire half hour of the opening battle.  Rolo and Rabbit would be our backup and support.</div> <bR> <div> This game started with 45 American players inside the castle, with the remaining Americans waiting 10 minutes before inserting and supporting the castle.  Meanwhile, any and all German's (RED) could start anywhere within about 100 yards of the castle.  The American's were charged with holding the castle for the first half hour for a major award of points.  This game brought over 600 paintballers, so the American's knew it would be a hard task to complete.  However, our general and his field commanders did an awesome job of managing the BLUE side and not only did the Americans get the points; we also managed to hold the castle for an additional half hour.</div> <bR> <div> The game was back and forth all day.  A few memorable moments were when Rolo and I were held up in the castle and solely held the east wall.  In the meantime, Rolo miraculously seemed to avoid a barrage of what seemed to be a million paintballs coming through the large doorway.  Through this hail of paint, he managed to wipe out no less than 10 players.  At one point, Rolo and I managed a triangulation tactic which was a thing of beauty.  When neither one of us could eliminate a few of the Germans, we worked together to bounce from one RED to another, taking them out in stride like a fine tuned machine.  Finally, we were eliminated by an enemy LAW.  (This is when the ref's earned their pay.  They got between the fury of paint and ourselves in order to allow us to exit the castle safely.)</div> <div> <IMG SRC="31e04d20.jpg" border=0 width="260" height="210" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <div> Another play of note was the “Compulsion Paint-lob elimination”.  Compulsion had virtually no air left in his tank, but rather than leaving the field, he would stay until the bitter end.  Knowing players with ghillie suits did not have to have broken paint to be eliminated, Compulsion “one-balled” a ghillie player that had been holding our force down for a long time.  The ball literally lobbed onto the ghillie player, so light that Compulsion had to tell the player he had been hit.  With that, both the ghillie player and Compulsion left the field.</div> <bR> <div> The final battle was a flag capture and hold.  The American's were motivated and fast.  We managed to get to the flag and hold it for the entire last half an hour.  It was no easy task, though.  The Germans would constantly rush and never let up.  It was awesome.  The game would end with the Americans holding the flag.</div> <bR> <div> Upon the final briefing, the 600+ paintballers were given the final point tally.  With the American's securing the opening and closing battle missions, they would win the game by a small, but decent margin, 2250 to 1500.</div> <bR> <div> It can not go without saying, that team Satsuma's Revenge (Compulsion's compatriots) were awarded a well deserved MVT award for the American side.  There were only about 5 or 6 of them, but they played with heart that I haven't seen in a long time.  Also, special thanks goes to Rabbit, for watching <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>'s back the entire game.  Lastly, to Rolo, for not only being there for support, but for also giving Compulsion extra paint when Compulsion would have had to leave due to no paint.  Rolo, you can run with us anytime.</div> <bR> <div> Noteworthy comments on the field are:  Airfills were ALWAYS no less than 4100psi, despite a huge amount of players.  The paint was top notch; Marbilizer's are standard for OA and for the cold temperatures that day, I had NO trouble whatsoever.  The ref's had a ton of work to do with masses of paintballers and they seemed to do a fine job.  Lastly, the players that attended; with the normal few exceptions, play was top notch and sportsmanship abound.  </div> <bR> <div> I look forward to lots more scenarios at Outdoor Adventure in Bowie, MD.  Despites Compulsion's marker problems, we had a blast and it was great to run with Rabbit again, and with our new <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>guest, Rolo.  We look forward to many more games with both Rolo and Rabbit.</div> <bR> <div> So, until 2009, on behalf of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, Happy Hanukah, etc., etc..</div> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="november_1st___2nd_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>November 1st - 2nd, 2008</B></div> <div> War of the Worlds III - Return of the Synth</div> <div> Splatbrothers and Tommy Hill Production</div> <div> 26-Hour Scenario Event</div> <bR> <div> For all but Migraine, Shadow, and Aegis, this event started very early on the morning of November 1st.  Since Halloween was the night before, most of us decided we'd make the trek the morning of the event.  Even though the sleepies were still in our eyes at the dark hours of the morning drive, at least the traffic was minimal and we all made it down to the Splatbrothers field by 9am, where we were greeted by a ton of avid paintballers for both sides of the battle.</div> <bR> <div> Setup was quick and greetings expedited as <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> readied for battle.  A brief discussion with General RedDevil of Team MERC, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>now had our starting assignment, which was to lead a contingent up the west side tapeline (cinderblock village) and into the woods.  The morning briefing found Spudcrazy continuing his roll of winning a prize drawing at the last 5 events, winning an Empire 68/4500 tank cover.  Would his luck carry to the team?  We would find out very quickly.</div> <bR> <div> At the bird banger, all participating <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>members and guests were accounted for at the Alien CP, ready to take the charge.  G-Man, who had broken his ankle a couple of weeks prior, stepped up and stayed in the game as the Alien radio operator at Spud's request.  However, being the tough guy he is, he left his wheelchair at camp and hobbled all the way to the CP.  We were met at the CP by teams Assault& Battery, Seek & Destroy, Black Widow Company, OFU, and the many walk-on's and other teams (that I failed to get the names of).  Totally pumped up at the sound of the bird banger, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>and SaD sprinted towards the cinderblock village, where we were met with minimal resistance.  After quickly eliminating the opposing players, we proceeded into the woods and setup a stronghold in the village.  This held for at least the first hour.  Upon eliminations, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>regrouped and then proceeded to support the right side flank heading behind Cheeseburger Hill, again, minimal resistance.  We started to scratch our heads and wondered where the opposing forces (the Human's) were on the field.  For the first several hours of the campaign, the main battle was in the towers and trenches field, within 300-500 feet of the Human CP.  Even though the Human's were backed up, the battle was fierce and fun.  Finally, the Human's broke the stranglehold and the real battles began.</div> <bR> <div> During the Human breakout in the trenches, the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>team medic, Shadow, gave a mad dash, through the trench field, like a gazelle through the Serengeti, picking off opposing players right and left and was recognized by team members of A&B for his cunning and voracity in attacking the trench.  It was a sight to behold.  Another great moment, which planted an evil grin on Spudcrazy's face, was during a fierce battle on the south side of the cinderblock village.  The Human force had total control of the village while a single Capital Offense member (the team captain, no doubt) was holding off an entire platoon of Aliens from behind a bunker at the corner of the SplatTrailer.  Spud told a fellow player that he had enough of the holdup and made a kamikaze run for the bunker.  Through a hail of paintballs, he made it through and eliminated the CO player, much to that players dismay.  The angry reaction of the human player was almost better than the play itself; nevertheless, it was one of the defining moments for Spud.</div> <bR> <div> Spudcrazy had two more moments that he will not soon forget.  One, was on Sunday when Buzzard (Team SaD) and he were stuck in Spearpoint Tower trying to stave off Human forces in the village.  Spud got down to, literally, a handful of paintballs and just enough air to throw the paintballs about 60 feet.  Without saying a word (except to ref Zeylor, to make sure he was not outside the rules), Spud walked up to the opposing player who was holding him and Buzzard down and barrel tagged him, then proceeded to turn around and take the offensive against the remaining OPFOR behind the trailer.  Spud never put his hand up or even took his finger off the trigger; he simply didn't make any aggressive moves as he walked up to the hostile bunker.  Again, an evil smile morphed onto his face.  The other moment was when Spudcrazy and Leg-Man saw an enemy aircraft [pilot] walk up behind a bunch of friendlies and proceeded to land his aircraft to barrel tag one of the players.  At that instant, the light went on above Spudcrazy's head and he said “heck, if he can do it, so can I”, so he went up to the aircraft pilot and barrel tagged him before he had a chance to “lift off” (raise the aircraft prop to indicate he was back in flight).</div> <bR> <div> Migraine found himself playing solo perimeter defense a lot of the time.  However, at one point, he found himself, along with some Assault & Battery players, thinking they were in Ocean City playing “Whack-a-Mole” in the trench field.  As the Human heads would pop up out of the trenches, Migraine would pick `em off one by one.  The only thing missing was the goofy music!!!  LOL.</div> <bR> <div> Five o'clock brought the end of Saturday's daytime battle.  As has been the custom this past year, Vader, of team DeadByDawn, drew upon his culinary skills to whip up a feast of Carolina Pulled Pork, Coleslaw, and green beans.  And oh what a feast it was.</div> <bR> <div> With bellies full, Leg-Man, Sabot Ranger, and Spudcrazy headed out to our CP to prepare it for the night battle.  They would string up no less than 5 halogen work lamps and placed a generator just out of bounds, to light up the entire area around the command post.  This tactic worked well, as it minimized the night vision equipped forces hits on the Alien CP until the last drip of gas had been used.  Before the nighttime bird banger sounded, the remainder of the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> and their guests, headed to the Alien CP to start the nights battle.  That's right, ALL of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT> went out to play at night!!!</div> <bR> <div> During the night battle, the tide turned in favor of the OPFOR's.  The Alien CP was hit three times with two general kills.  Regrettably, Siege's debut as an armband wearing General was short lived, but the real General (Red Devil) was alive and throwing paint at the OPFOR's.  During the last CP hit, the generator, somehow and spontaneously “self-turned off” (located in the out of bounds area) and all went dark.  However, the opposing player that overran the CP swore that the generator “just shut off”, even though he admitted being “near” it, but upon restart the generator, it was found that the gas supply was in fact, physically shut off, and this kind of thing does not happen on it's own.  Oh well!!!  At least one<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> member stayed out on the field for the entire night game.  Surprisingly, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>completed 2 of the 3 night missions handed to them, however, as is usually the case, the night vision players dominated the night, but that was to be expected.</div> <bR> <div> Still with a comfortable lead (as told by the game producer), Sunday mornings' battle started the same way Saturday's had, with a rush to control territory.  Missions cards were handed out at the Alien CP and Young Gun Siege stepped up for his first mission.  His mission was to sniper patrol around the Quar'ts Quarters for 30 minutes.  Going solo, he headed towards his objective; all was quiet, since the humans were busy protecting their CP.  Siege successfully completed his mission, gave the card to the ref who signed it and 100 points were award to Aliens.  Way to go Siege.</div> <bR> <div> Sunday found the playing field a bit more even on the battle front until the final hour and a half of regular play.  During this final play, the Aliens were on the doorsteps of the Human CP, only to get called back every 15 minutes to allow the Human's to safely reinsert.  This proved to be VERY frustrating, as there were many times that the Alien forces, which included Sabot Ranger, Leg-Man, and A&B's own, Trapper, low crawling to within 50 feet of the Human CP, only to get flushed out by the referee staff at the command of BigT.  At the final insertion, the Human's would use their super weapon, which they managed to deal out of the hands of a prime role player, to destroy every living Alien on the Tower field.  I'm not sure what this did for the Human's, but it sure did clear the field.</div> <bR> <div> Once again, the final battle was unique and different.  The object of this battle was to recover 5 golden “team” bricks and place them into a container in the middle of the battle field.  If all the bricks were placed, 3 more bricks would be hidden well within enemy territory for bonus points.  This was a great concept in that it became more than just a paint slinging contest and brought the final battle to the entire field.  </div> <bR> <div> As seemed to be standard operating procedure (SOP), the Aliens went “balls to the wall” and managed to recover and place all five golden bricks in the container within the first half hour of the hour long battle.  It seemed as though we had clearly won the final battle.  With that, the bird banger popped and we set off to break camp and prepare to hear the final outcome. </div> <bR> <div> The awards ceremony started off with the typical prize drawings.  This event, Splatbrothers seemed to outdo themselves, in that they must have had an entire proshop full of giveaways.  They had lots of markers, tanks, tank covers, shirts, hats, beanies, swabs, just about everything a paintballer would need, including some stuff they wouldn't need.  After that, both generals had a chance to address the crowd and hand out their awards.  Devastator, formerly the Captain of Team Anarchy, now a member of SoVA, and the Human general graciously awarded Team<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> OldManMilitia</B></I></FONT> the Most Formidable Opponent award.  Even though we are a small team, we give it our all to be all over the field and in every nook and cranny to disrupt the opposing forces, and for that, Deva recognized us with the <A HREF="awards_mvp___mfo___wow.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U>MFO award</U></A>.  Our gratitude and appreciation goes out to the Human general.   Next, was the Alien general, RedDevil, co-captain of Team MERC.  After thanking his players, he proceeded to hand out the honors as well.  Recognizing G-Man's dedication to the Aliens and his own team, RedDevil pointed out that even a broken foot could not stop this old man from giving it his all as the Alien radio operator.  Not only did G-Man run the command radio, he served as general and tactical liaison, and for that, RedDevil awarded G-Man the well deserved <A HREF="awards_mvp___mfo___wow.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U>Most Valuable Player</U></A> award.</div> <bR> <div> As a side note, team<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> would like to personally thank RedDevil for allowing <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>to play the game that they wanted to play and for trusting us to lead many of the missions and squadrons that were sent to the battle front.  To both generals, RedDevil and Devastator, to say “thank you” isn't enough for the fun that this game delivered at your leaderships and skills as generals, but THANK YOU.</div> <bR> <div> <IMG SRC="31dfc5a0.jpg" border=0 width="252" height="346" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="20" VSPACE="10">After all the prize giveaways and awards were handed out, it was now time for the results.  To say that the Aliens were pumped to hear the final score, expecting a “blow-out” would be understating the enthusiasm, however, when BigT announced that the Human Race had WON the game by 30 points, an immediate dismay and confusion came over the vast majority of the participants, both Aliens and Humans alike.  It turned out that although the Aliens may have outplayed the Humans on the battlefield, the Humans outsmarted and outwitted the Aliens at the game at hand.  Afterall, this was a BigT Alternative Reality Role Playing scenario.  Unfortunately, this author believes that the majority of the players on the field came to sling paint and NOT spend their time role playing or figuring out what was going on in the head of the producer.  I think the picture of the Alien general, RedDevil, to the right, sums it up:</div> <bR> <div> Regardless of the outcome, the competitiveness, sportsmanship, weather, playing conditions and players fielded, made this one of the funnest games that <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> has ever attended.</div> <bR> <div> A huge thanks goes out to Ronn, Don, JesseJames, and the entire Splatbrothers staff for a great field and their hospitality to the players.  To Coyote, the ultimate ref, and his team of refs, not to mention <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>'s own Zeylor, for the quality and ability to be all over the field trying to make sure the game was played fair and safely.  To ALL the players, what a great game.  And finally, to our camping buddies on team DeadByDawn, not the least of which, Vader, for making sure we were well fed, you guys are the best.</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>OMM </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >would also like to thank the following for running and gunning with us:  Vincent Young, thanks for all the recon and all the help on the field.  “The Nick's” and Peyton, for playing along side of us and being our support.  Your enthusiasm and constant questions on how to help did not go unnoticed, thanks, you can run with us anytime.  To Aegis, thanks for using your crazy accurate shooting abilities to get us out of jams.  Now if we could only get you out there on that final battle. </FONT></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="september_21st_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>September 21st, 2008</B></div> <div> "Blue vs. Red - System Wars" Scenario Game</div> <div> Outdoor Adventure Paintball, Bowie, MD</div> <bR> <div> <I>An absolute gorgeous morning, starting what was sure to be an awesome battle of Red vs. Blue in the System Wars of the future.</I></div> <bR> <div> Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, Leg-Man, Mamba, and Compulsion, along with Young Guns, Mini-Me and Goofa, arrived early to set up the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OldManMilitia </B></FONT>command post.  It was great to have the Young Guns back out on the field after a long respite, they truly add to the power of the team.  Thanks to Compulsion for the foresight to bring his backup marker, Spudcrazy had to borrow it as his own Etek had gone down and was unfixable at the field.  The game briefing and prize drawing found <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OMM </B></FONT>with their first “prize” of the day; Sabot Ranger won an electric loader.  </div> <bR> <div> <B>OldManMilitia </B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >would play BLUE side once again.  However, this time, the BLUE side's HQ was on the north side of the field, this would prove to be a very difficult starting point for the entire day's effort; nevertheless, the changeup was fun.  </FONT><B>OMM </B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >took the field and took their first assignment which was to capture and hold the west side tapeline, all the way to the DeathAlley town field.  At the start of the game, and seemingly throughout the day, the REDs were quick to control territory as they gained real estate over the entire playing field.  </FONT><B>OMM </B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >encountered heavy resistance at the town field but was able to maintain control of the north wood line for quite some time.  Sabot Ranger and Leg-Man would aide on the northeast side of the field.  After the main contingent of </FONT><B>OMM </B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >had been eliminated at the town wood line, a miss communication brought Leg-Man and Sabot Ranger back to the insertion point, rather than the HQ, which brought the </FONT><B>OMM </B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >count on the playing field to zero.  This was a bit disheartening as it seemed the entire BLUE team was now waiting at the insertion point with no one to hold any portion of the field.  Upon reinserting, the BLUE side found they couldn't even enter the field without referee intervention.  However, once insertion could be attained, the BLUE rallied and gained some ground to bring the fight back to the RED, but it was a hard fought battle every step of the way.</FONT></div> <bR> <div> After a brief exit for lunch, both sides took to the field.  The RED's had a huge advantage in points at this stage of the fight, but that only motivated the BLUE's to play harder.  The first mission of the afternoon was to recover an ammunition satchel and return it to the HQ so that it could be subsequently used to blow up a bridge.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OldManMilitia </B></FONT>volunteered to escort the engineer to get the satchel.  After successfully recovering the satchel, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OMM </B></FONT>and a contingent of supporting individual players traversed down the east side tapeline to try to flank the back side of the RED HQ.  Led by Leg-Man, this battle raged back and forth for almost an hour resulting in the BLUE staving off any RED advance along that side of the field and holding the small house that exists there, along with controlling the crossroads south of the fort.  Following a quick break for air fills and paint reloading, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OMM </B></FONT>took back to the field and headed back down the west side tape line to DeathAlley.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OldManMilitia </B></FONT>quickly secured DeathAlley and were making their way to the south road leading to the RED HQ.  At this point, Spud had to convince his fellow comrades, Leg-Man and Sabot Ranger, to cross the road and assault the enemy insertion point, but once the easy convincing was accomplished, Sabot Ranger took the lead and dug in right near the insertion path.  Unfortunately, Sabot's position was quickly discovered and the battle commenced, but not before Sabot took out a huge group of OPFOR.  Following, was Spudcrazy and Leg-Man; both also managed quite a few eliminations before being taken out.  The RED commander utilized a bullhorn to address the fielding players back to protect the HQ position.  That, and that alone, is what saved the RED side from a massive annihilation.  This was the only time the BLUE side was within striking distance of the RED HQ all day.</div> <bR> <div> The final battle was to raise and hold the team colors at a fallen helicopter near the fuel depot on the east side of the field.  Mini-Me, Mamba, and Spudcrazy would try to help attack and gain control of the objective, but were quickly eliminated and found little hope in actually seizing the objective.  Meanwhile, Sabot Ranger, Leg-Man, and Goofa, alone, managed a huge recon and push through DeathAlley and to the west side of the fort in the bushes were they took up an over watch and waylaid a boat load of RED's patrolling the area.  They held this area for the entire final battle and when the rest of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OMM </B></FONT>came in for support, managed to advance significantly, but not enough to gain the objective.  Oh, what a few more minutes would have meant!!!!</div> <bR> <div> At the final briefing, it was concluded that the RED side controlled and dominated the morning battles, but the BLUE side pushed back in the afternoon to bring the game within one mission.  However, the final results found the RED on the victorious side of the battle by about 250 points.  It was a great game and was tough all day long.  Not a moment of down time was to be had.</div> <bR> <div> At the prize drawing, once again, Spudcrazy found himself holding a brand new E-Ventz goggle system, much to the amazement and surprise of his teammates.  But the true highlight of the day came as awards were handed out.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OldManMilitia </B></FONT>was once again honored with the<I> </I><A HREF="awards_most_valuable_team___system_wars.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U><I>Most Valuable Team</I></U></A><I> </I>award for the BLUE side.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OMM </B></FONT>wishes to thank the BLUE general, all the BLUE participants, OA staff, OA management and the game producer for the nice comments expressed about Team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OldManMilitia </B></FONT>and the honor bestowed by the acceptance of the<I> </I><A HREF="awards_most_valuable_team___system_wars.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U><I>MVT</I></U></A><A HREF="awards_most_valuable_team___system_wars.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U> award</U></A>.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OMM </B></FONT>truly enjoys the gaming at the Outdoor Adventures Paintball Park and appreciates the sportsmanship and gamesmanship of all the participants involved.  It was a great time.</div> <bR> <div> A special thanks goes out to Compulsion for lending out his marker to a teammate in need and helping out an opponent with another “fallen” marker.  Also, to the RED players, particularly Zombie and Bill, that came by the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OMM </B></FONT>camp to engage in friendly banter and war stories, that is what paintball scenario is all about.  Stop by the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OMM </B></FONT>camp anytime!!!!  Kudos needs to go to the great BBQ caterers.  Man, you really no how to cook up some great grub.  And lastly, to our team, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><B>OldManMilitia</B></FONT>, for their great teamwork throughout this battle and every battle and their carpooling setup and CP teardown, it was like a fine tuned battle drill.</div> <bR> <div> <I><U>Side note</U></I><I>:  If you live in Virginia, NEVER play paintball where you need to go by Reskins Stadium if a game is letting out within 3 hours of your return.  It took us no less than two hours to get home, which normally takes 50 minutes...  Argh!!!!</I></div> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="september_7th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>September 7th, 2008</B></div> <div> "Get Rid of Old Paint Day"</div> <bR> <div> Spudcrazy and Mamba were the only <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> to show up at Pevs@AG to get rid of all the old leftover scenario paint that Spud had.  Despite a hurricane and 6+ inches of rain the day prior, the fields were barely damp and in great shape.  Spudcrazy and Mamba succeeded in slinging a little over 3 cases of paint.  We had a blast.  Mamba kicked some major tail and after Spud's dismal start, finally got his groove on to paint some opponents.  The weather was great, the playing was great, and the field was great, what more could you ask for????</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="august_25th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>August 25th, 2008</B></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.pentagonpaintball.com/" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.pentagonpaintball.com/"><U>Pentagon Paintball</U></A> Field Review</div> <bR> <div> <I>Much to my surprise, on my visit to my in-law's house, my wife allowed me to bring my paintball gear, so I did.  Here's my review of Pentagon Paintball, Fairview, PA.</I></div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="http://www.pentagonpaintball.com/" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.pentagonpaintball.com/"><U>Pentagon Paintball</U></A> is about 15 minutes from my in-law's house in Erie, PA.  It is located just off of Rt. 98 in Fairview, PA.  They are very unique in that they have a once a year “insurance” fee, which is really their field fee of $15, then after that, every Sunday walk-on play is FREE.  However, it is a field paint only field and HPA is $1 for every 1000psi.  But again the uniqueness of the field, they offer an HPA card for $39.99 which is also good for the year for unlimited air fills.  If you play often, this is a total screamer of a deal.  Paint prices range from $39.98/case for white box, to about $65.98/case for their premium.  I bought their mid-grade paint, which was about $55/case, however, it was as good as any premium paint I have ever bought.  All paint was a regional brand of JT.</div> <bR> <div> The field itself is relatively small compared to what I am used to, but it plays large.  As far as I know, they only have five, maybe six fields.  One “woods” field (which I will describe later), two X-ball style fields, one air field, and one rather large and elaborate Fort field.  They also have what they call an Arena field, which is a tiny X-ball style field, meant for one-on-one or two-on-two grudge matches; this was quite popular.</div> <bR> <div> The pro-shop and field opens at 11 o'clock and not a minute beforehand.  Registration is quick, especially if you've already played there before, you just buy paint and you're set.  It's a short walk thru the parking lot to the field staging area.  I was quite surprised and a bit concerned that there is no safety briefing or regulated chronoing, however, virtually everyone self-chrono'd and safety didn't seem to be a concern all day.  The rules were strictly enforced and there were large signs indicating barrel condoms and goggle areas.  There was one instance that a player thought another was shooting hot, so the ref had everyone shoot over the chrono before advancing to the next game, those with high markers were forced to re-set and rechrono.</div> <bR> <div> Games moved along very rapidly.  They were played in sets then you returned to the staging area.  When a game was finished, you switched sides and played a second game.  There was NO waiting in between games.  As soon as the first one was called, you switched.  Upon return to the staging area, you had about five minutes to reload then you were off to play another game.  Since the games moved along so quickly, I had no problem sitting out a game or two, to take a break.  </div> <bR> <div> Teams were split as you took the field.  Every other person went to the opposite side.  I found it interesting that no one cared if they were playing against or with their buddies.  It made for a great and diverse day since the teams were NEVER the same.  Also, I have NEVER played paintball when there has been such a high level of sportsmanship.  I don't know why, but I was glad to see it; not a single unsportsmanship event all day.  One guy kind of overshot a younger kid during a bunker move.  After shooting him, he went out of his way to apologize and actually called himself out.  I wish there was that kind of sportsmanship everywhere.  One note, since teams were reformed at every game set, there was no armbands to indicate who was on what side.  For the most part this wasn't a problem (all games were elimination except the woods “capture and defend game). Until near the end of the game, especially if you came up on the opposing teams six, then you just had to shoot whoever you saw unless there was NO doubt that the players you were facing were on your side.  However, it was never a problem, because it was just more people to shoot at!!!!</div> <bR> <div> Now on to the playing…  As most fields were of the speedball type, there isn't much to say about them.  However, OMM would have been proud of “this” old man, because I did us proud.  For the most part, I played middle, but when the games got stagnate, I ran for the front (all speed games were elimination).  During one of the airball games, it was 4 of “us” left against 2 of “them”.  “They” were heavy duty speedballers and we only had myself, one speedballer (who, ironically, was playing back barking orders), and two noobs.  After low crawling up through the snake, I managed to take out one of the opponents completely on the other side of the field, which left one guy in the back Aztec holding the rest of us down.  I knew if I put enough paint on the bunker, I could pop out and do a run through.  I gathered my breath and took a run for it.  I got him.  However, he knew I was coming because he could hear all the paint hitting his bunker.  I got him first, but he responded with about a half of pod of paint on me, I expected nothing less.  It was awesome.  </div> <bR> <div> Pentagon Paintballs newest field, the Fort, was reminiscent of Splatbrothers, just a bit.  They had a small trench system, tons of material bunkers, four two-story towers, two small buildings of rooms, and two ground level crow's nests.  As with OMM style, I sat in the back to scope out the situation, then in Spud-style, I took off for the front.  I partnered up with the one and only pump player, that was a clone of Aegis; fast & furious!!!  We would basically own all four games played on this field, with the late exception of one game.  Since they were elimination, two speedballers and about 4 young guns decide to camp out in one of the towers, very rarely ever even shooting their maker.  Needless to say, when we finally rushed their last stronghold, we were outgunned.  No harm, no foul, it was still a blast.</div> <bR> <div> Lastly, I will mention the “woodsball” field that fell into the playing rotation.  Woodsball was just a glorious name for a giant non-prickly thicket.  The field would be set up in a “V” shape, with the legs of the “V” being about 8 foot wide open grass lined with bunkers.  On one side of the “V”, in the alley-way was another three sided crow's nest.  The inner part of the “V” was brush, with the widest part being loose woods with a castle at the back.  This game was an assault & attack, with the flag hanging in the castle.  The defending team started in the castle, while the attack team started at the point of the “V”.  We defended first.  Since the majority of the noobs and young guns wanted to stay in the castle, I decided to B-line it in the thicket.  The attack team immediately took up positions along the alley-way and in the crow's nest.  One attacker started in through the thicket, but I must have scared him out.  Fortunately for me, he didn't bother attacking and just took a position in the crow's nest.  Myself, along with one other guy traversed arms and legs through what appeared to be a varmint track.  We ended up sneaking passed and behind the crow's nest.  Having to keep the guy with me from screaming from excitement, we popped out and took out about 7 OPFOR all at once.  Since we were getting shot at, we immediately headed for the other leg of the “V”, along with some of the defenders that were originally holding off the crow's nest.  Since there was no armband tape, when we got to the other leg there was a bit of confusion about who was who.  All the OPFOR had their backs to us, but then again, the remainder of the defenders that were holding that side of the “V” took us as enemy as well.  Just then, one of the speedballers said, “hey OMM, what do we do?”, with that, I said, shoot anyone that moves until you stop taking paint, so that's precisely what we did.  There were a few holdouts, but they made it a point to scream “WE'RE DEFENDERS”.  With that, we totally won the game.  I was delighted by the kudos; after all, this is what OMM does the best, right?  Be sneaky.</div> <bR> <div> The next game found us attacking the castle.  In fear they would incorporate my plan, I told anyone that was will to crawl, to get into the thicket.  Much to my surprise, the other side sent no one in the bush, so we immediately headed for the flag.  The defenders kept no less than eight defenders in the fort.  We did a one-by-one rush, knowing we would get eliminated, but not before we eliminated one, two, or three of them first.  We figured it would weed them out.  The plan worked.  The four of us that headed through the bush got taken out, but that allowed our side to decimate the remainder of the defenders and take the flag.</div> <bR> <div> All in all, I had a blast.  I went through a case of paint in about 4 hours, however, in those four hours I PLAYED fifteen games and sat out two.  They really move you along.  I feel I did pretty decent at the “speedball” thing, but I was sore as can be for a week and I still need to work on shooting with both hands.</div> <bR> <div> In conclusion, if anyone is up Erie, PA way, God forbid, you definitely should play this field, regardless how you feel about speedball or small fields.  The player sportsmanship was as high as I have ever seen it, and you get to sling a lot of paint…  I will be bringing my paintball gear as part of my regular “in-law” packing, from now on.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="august_23th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>August 23th, 2008</B></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com/bunkerhill.htm" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com/bunkerhill."><U>Bunker Hill:  American Revolution</U></A></div> <div> Splatbrothers 8-Hour R.A.W. Event</div> <div> <I>Perspective by:  Ron "Compulsion" Hockman</I></div> <bR> <div> I arrived at SplatBrothers Paintball PARC in street clothes and 45 minutes late.  I-95 hates me.  I found Sabot Ranger carrying the guidon and listening to the safety briefing (which I'd already managed to miss half).  The most important part of the briefing was the new CP/respawn policy. Touching your CP is now instant respawn.  There is now a 180ft no-entry area surrounding the CP.  Members of the opposite team cannot enter this area under any circumstances.  You have two options to destroy the CP, LAW it from outside the zone or blow an air horn at either of the two "kill points" per CP.  The kill points are two 55gal drums located at the edge of the no-entry zone.  CPs are dead for 15 minutes and there is no respawning while your CP is dead.  Anyone at the CP when the 15 minutes is up is returned to the game, even if the opponent is still in control of a kill point and immediately blow the horn.</div> <bR> <div> SB has an awesome field.  I really wish I was able to see more of it.  As things are, I spend too much of my time in those spools defending my dang CP.</div> <bR> <div> Sabot and I skipped the opening battle on the towers.  From the reports we got, SOVA owned the field.  That was in line with my predictions.  Primarily because SOVA is an experienced team, but also because they fielded about three times more players than the next-largest team present. </div> <bR> <div> Once the game started for real it became immediately apparent that the weather was not going to be in our favor.  We were both huffing and puffing after only a few hills.</div> <bR> <div> We pushed through the house and across the road to we made contact.  We held the left flank against spirited opposition, using ambushes and stealth to offset being outnumbered by a significant margin.  I took the first of many breaks to the mask, while Sabot managed to hold his own until shot in the back by one of our teammates.</div> <bR> <div> We hooked up for a mission carrying sandbags along our right tapeline.  We passed the POW camp without serious incident, but met strong opposition shortly afterwards.  In what was a continuing pattern throughout the day, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> led the way.  Sabot took a forward position in a spool with me giving support from about 25 feet to his 7 o'clock.  Sabot was eliminated from his position, and I moved up to take his place in the spool.  Being smaller than Sabot, I managed to tuck in a bit tighter and had a great deal of success from this position.  A low-crawler got the drop on me and opened fire from about 10 feet away on my 10 o'clock (possibly the same person who eliminated Sabot).  He opened fire a bit prematurely and gave away his position.  He regretted his decision, as I painted that area at my max ROF until I saw his hands go up half a pod later.  For the next few minutes traded paint with player to my 10 o'clock, 12 o'clock and 2 o'clock.  My crowning moment of the day was eliminating a three person push by wrapping around the left side of my bunker and putting half a hopper into the teeth of their charge.  One guy took about 10 of my balls to his face, not overshooting, just “paint in the air”.  It was glorious.  </div> <bR> <div> For quite some time it was just me in that bunker.  A player from Team MERC, Koala, pushed up to support me, but we eventually got taken out.</div> <bR> <div> Sabot and I were separated for a while after that.  I met up with some players from SOVA and ran a mission to assault Maze City.  Due to some poor communication, I thought one of Sabot's "buddies" from Aftermath was a ref and got one on the teeth for my troubles.  A (not-so) quick jaunt back to the CP got me back in the game.  I met back up with SOVA while they defended Maze City.  I got deep into the brush to the point where I was practically invisible.  One of my teammates decided to take a leak on a nearby tree, not realizing I was there.  After making myself known to him, we both dug ourselves in to ambush anyone coming to the crossroads.</div> <bR> <div> A red player with a Phantom wandered directly into my line of fire.  I asked him loudly "are you live?"  Apparently he wasn't, as he tried to run away.  Being the certified genius that I am, I forgot to turn on my gun after having been eliminated earlier.  The pumper would have gotten away just fine if it weren't for my tree-watering buddy, who eliminated him with a "you are now".</div> <bR> <div> I turned my gun on.</div> <bR> <div> After a few more minutes, it was announced that we'd successfully held Maze City, so I continued down the road with five or six players from SOVA.  We spread out into the woods until we arrived at a bridge.  The message came down to hold the bridge.  I took deep cover in the woods several yards up the road from the bridge.  I took out another wandering red player who didn't realize I was there.  Some confusion took place, as we needed to get to the bridge:  an ammo box, an engineer and, after some time had elapsed, a ref.  It ended up taking about 10 minutes longer than it should have.  Shortly after this time, some red players had decided I was interesting and I started taking fire from several directions.  One player in particular (maybe the resurrected wanderer from earlier) REALLY did not like me.  You would think I'd slept with his sister or something, as he IGNORED CLOSER PLAYERS in order to shoot at me.</div> <bR> <div> I retreated a bit, but remained within his range.  I don't think that, in the history of paintball, a player has done a better job of maintaining an opponent's attention than I did.  I was expecting someone to flank him, but that never materialized.  Proving that even the blind squirrel finds a nut eventually, one of his paintballs contacted my hopper and broke.  Since my camelback had dried out half an hour earlier, I figured it was time for lunch.</div> <bR> <div> Om-nomnomnom....</div> <bR> <div> After finishing my hotdogs and water, I found Sabot back at the CP.  Apparently they'd heard <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> was at lunch and figured it was safe to launch an assault.  Red managed to capture both our kill points and apparently had been blowing them repeatedly for some time.  At the next insertion window, Sabot went down the hill and I went through the spools.  The assault petered out in the spools and apparently things didn't go so well in the woods, either.  Just before the insertion window opened up again, I made one run-through through the spools but didn't accomplish much before being eliminated.</div> <bR> <div> This time things were serious, as we stacked the helicopter.  We flew along the left tapeline sowing fear and discord among the players and letting them know that they needed to run.  While they were distracted, the aircraft landed for a split second to let me off.  I tore up the remaining red players in the spools before being eliminated myself.</div> <bR> <div> I got distracted at this point with a "discussion" with some red players.  But apparently the rest of the push worked since we the kill points were cleared shortly thereafter.</div> <bR> <div> Along with Coyote, SHOAL (MERC) and one other player, I flew a disastrous second helicopter mission across the road and deep into red territory.  The less that's mentioned about that mission the better.  Let's just say that you shouldn't horse around trying to figure out where to land the helicopter while behind enemy lines.</div> <bR> <div> Sabot and I met up again to do some more stealthy kills, however, at this time it seemed that blue owned most of the field.  We wandered through the POW camp, through the maze, across the bridge and all the way to Hamburger Hill before meeting resistance.  I was at the base of Hamburger Hill and Sabot was several yards in front of me.  While Sabot Ranger fixed their attention, I charged up the hill and rained down fire from above securing two eliminations.  Unfortunately, both players were blue.  They'd opened fire on Sabot before realizing he was one of their own.  They were both on SOVA, though, and took it in good humor, even going so far as to compliment our move.  I told them "I really, really wish you'd been red."  It was a beautiful flank, and would have been my Move of the Day(tm) if not for the fact that they were my allies.</div> <bR> <div> This put us at Hamburger Hill and the Towers, which were currently under our control.  Red was milling about the road and taking their sweet time about assaulting the towers.  I wasn't about to let them take the bunkers and pallets without a fight, so I took one along the left side while Sabot took the trench in the middle.  Sabot came up the middle before having a bit of a confrontation with some players who didn't understand the rules.  I harassed the red players and took a few out before succumbing to the inevitable flank from the woods.  It really was just me and Sabot holding off about 10 guys at this point.</div> <bR> <div> Since both Sabot and I were eliminated right after one another, it was as good a stopping point as any.  We headed back to the parking lot, had a beverage to celebrate then headed home.</div> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="august_3rd_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>August 3rd, 2008</B></div> <div> "Wild, Wild West" Scenario Game</div> <div> Outdoor Adventure Paintball, Bowie, MD</div> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT><I> made our first en masse appearance at an </I><A HREF="http://oapaintball.com" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://oapaintball.com"><U><I>Outdoor Adventures</I></U></A><I> Scenario at their Bowie, MD field Sunday, 3 August.  The scenario pitted cowboys and homesteaders in an old west fight for land and water.  </I></div> <bR> <div> This event really started the evening before with a pre-game party and safety sleepover at Sabot Ranger's headquarters in Crofton, MD, for carbo-stuffing and the sharing of strategies.  Translated; steaks, potato salad, and beer was eaten and drank before crashing for the evening.  The only attendee's that could make it were Sabot Ranger (of course), LegMan and G-Man.  Thanks to LegMan's vociferous discussions on religion, medicine, and family, the old men didn't hit the sack until 1:00 am in the morning.  With a wakeup time of 7:00 am, they ate JimmyDean biscuits, drank their coffee, and eventually linked up around 8:45 am with Spud, Zeylor, and Mamba (who arrived at the field at an hour earlier to set up the CP).  Special thanks go to Sabot's lovely wife for her hospitality, hosting and putting up with these grungy ranchers.</div> <bR> <div> After the obligatory safety briefing, handing of prizes, and storyline synopsis, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> headed for the field in support of the blue side.  Zeylor was turned back because he was wearing shorts and apparently OA Paintball has a vague rule that no shorts are allowed on the field, so after a little bit of discussion, Zeylor was given a pair of camo, MC Hammer style pants and he was on his way.</div> <bR> <div> This game was in OA's "Beat-the-Heat" format, meaning each mission set was to be one hour long with a ½ hour break in between for hydration and cooling off.  This format proved to be popular with <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> and almost all other players.  A 60 minute mission is about right for players to carry enough paint and air and provide for heated battles.  The 5 minute warning to return to the field for the next mission was missing in the first couple of missions but OA quickly adjusted and provided sufficient warning to hit the field.</div> <bR> <div> Mission #1 was simple, whichever side had their flag color raised in the fort at the end of the hour, won the full points for that mission.  It was a race to the fort.  FlyingAce, of team Grim Reapers, took charge of getting all the young guns to sprint to the fort, while the slower, older `ballers would defend.  Surprisingly enough, Spud and Compulsion were among the first to arrive and Spud expeditiously raised the BLUE flag.  Compulsion held watch at the top of the fort while the remaining BLUE's fought off the constant attack of the REDs.  For this mission, Spud led the aggression forward of the fort and managed to slide into a bunker already occupied by an unknowing RED.  Spud proceeded to put his barrel into the RED players' upper thigh and offered a surrender or very painful hit, he took the surrender.  BLUE handedly won the first mission.</div> <bR> <div> Mission #2 was a two part mission filled with action.  First, a fallen cowboy (dummy) was to be found and brought back to the team's drop off location by the end of the 60 minutes.  The second mission was to hold and raise team flags in key locations.  Whichever team had the majority of three flags hanging with their team colors, took the points.  The 3-flag portion of this mission found Aegis running like a madman through a hail of paintballs to allow or hang all three flags.  This was done with lightening speed which allowed the BLUE side to concentrate on holding the REDs off the flags and advancing to find the fallen cowboy.  G-Man and Sabot Ranger, supported by Zeylor and another BLUE player, out in an observation post (OP), lay down near the northern berms and road to form an ambush line just waiting for the REDs.  About 20-25 REDs inserted together and were lollygagging down the road looking at their feet.  They were bunched up trying to walk the tapeline, all markers pointing down, and not looking around.  Once they got close enough to ensure that all barrel covers were off the ambushers could hear them talking about skirting the tapeline confirming their hostile intent.  Somehow without command, G-Man, Sabot, and Zeylor all opened up nearly simultaneously.  The REDs had no idea where <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> and company were hidden.  It was like a Civil War battlefield.  The entire front and side ranks looked up in shock, raised their markers, and just started falling back to the rear.  Danged if the second and third ranks didn't walk right up to the front and try to spray paint everywhere, only to suffer the fate of the first ranks.  Within about 10 seconds, the entire group was wiped out and making the walk of shame still having no idea where they were hit from.  Unfortunately, Sabot Ranger did take a hit, but not from a RED, but from a YELLOW, that is, a yellow jacket bee, right to the butt.  True to Sabot's nature, he continued to stay in the game until the very end.</div> <bR> <div> Mission #3 found the RED side finally bringing their "A" game.  The two sides were to blowup the stagecoach (PB tank) and then retrieve the cash trunks that were to be blown out of the damage.  Apparently, the BLUE side didn't have a qualified person manning the launcher, as he wasn't carrying any ammo, nor did he know how to fire the LAW when he got within range.  The RED side took the mission.  However, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, as a group, pushed up the left side through the village, almost totally unopposed and secured the tape line all the way to the RED insert point.  Spud and Sabot pushed forward on point with Zeylor on the tape and G-Man and LegMan in the middle, followed by Mamba, Compulsion, and his buddy on the right.  Spud and Sabot held fire as long as was safe then finally opened fire wiping out 5-10 unsuspecting REDs.  More REDs tried to push to the middle where LegMan and G-Man whacked them.  Spud was hit.  Sabot pulled back to G-Man.  REDs pushed the tape line whereupon Zeylor proceeded to give them a shellacking.  G-Man was hit and LegMan pulled back so Zeylor and Sabot withdrew as well.  It was a valiant effort.  Zeylor moved back to the fort where he successfully executed a blind barrel tag on an unsuspecting RED players' family jewels.  The player called himself out IMMEDIATELY.</div> <bR> <div> On the final mission, after securing the objective house, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> pushed left into the spool fields once again and proceeded to wipe out the REDs all the way across the berm and within 45 yards of their insertion point.  LegMan, Mamba, and G-Man were covering the part of the spools closest to the Castle.  REDs were continuing to "waltz" into their field of fire, while LegMan, Mamba, and G-Man would wait until about two or three would feel nice and cozy behind cover, then when they would make their approach to storm the Castle, the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>members and rest of the BLUEs would open up on them and take them out.  Flanking by the REDs through the spool field was not an option. Anxious to break into the spool field, Zeylor and Spud decided to re-enact Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, only this time, neither Butch Cassidy nor Sundance got eliminated.  This opened up the spools for the BLUE taking.  Sabot would then advance to the far side berm and pop out from behind his cover like Whack-a-Mole, appearing out of different spots along the berm keeping the REDs off balance, eliminating 1 or 2 each time he popped up.  Mamba would slide over into the spool field and whack or suppress troublesome RED bunkers.  Just seconds before the final bird banger, Mamba pinned a 5 man red bunker while Sabot ran behind them.  They were so fixated on Mamba that they didn't hear or see Sabot until the first round eliminated a red player.  They all turned around and 2 of them assumed the fetal position when the bird banger sounded.</div> <bR> <div> The end of the game marked the beginning of some much needed downtime and rest but the fun and fortune did not stop there.  At the awards and prize ceremony, Spud won a much needed new mask, which just so happened to be an EXACT replacement for his current olive Ventz Avatars.  However, the best was yet to come.  As the awards for MVP, Producers Award, and MVT were announced,<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Team Old Man Militia </B></I></FONT>was conferred the award of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Arial" ><A HREF="awards_most_valuable_team___oa___wild_wild_west.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U><I><B>Most Valuable Team</B></I></U></A></FONT><A HREF="awards_most_valuable_team___oa___wild_wild_west.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U> </U></A>for the Blue side for their impressive tactical skill and ability to achieve strategic advantage despite their relatively small number.  All the guys on <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> are honored by the accolade.  </div> <bR> <div> Upon leaving the park, Sabot Ranger, once again, offered up his hospitality and invited his fellow teammates to his home for refreshments and refueling.  Compulsion, LegMan, and G-Man accepted his invitation while Spud, Zeylor, and Mamba had to retreat back to their own homes.  It was a great day and the weather was perfect.  Once again fun was had by all.  A special thanks goes out to Compulsion's buddies, Billy and Zombie, for their efforts and skill which undoubtedly helped us to achieve the MVT award.  Final score for the day:  Blue - 2000, Red - 1800!!!!</div> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT><I><B> Attendees</B></I>:  Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, LegMan, G-Man, Compulsion, Mamba, Zeylor, and Aegis</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="june_13th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>June 13th, 2008</B></div> <div> Special Engagement</div> <div> <A HREF="http://oldmanmilitia.com/Press/SoundoffFullSpread.jpg" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://oldmanmilitia.com/Press/SoundoffF"><U>APAC Field Training Exercise</U></A></div> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>We are pleased to announce two new members of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>.  The first is Zeylor, who is also a member of Dead By Dawn.  Typically, we wouldn't recruit a member of another team, but Zeylor comes to us not as a recruit but as the mentor that led <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I> </FONT>to its <A HREF="about.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="About Us"><U>very first scenario</U></A>.  He is still very much a part and member of Dead By Dawn and holds them as his primary team, but because of his dedication, friendship, and contribution to our humbled team, we have asked and he has graciously accepted that he wear the colors of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> whenever he wants and whenever he is not obligated to his primary team.  We are proud to call him a teammate and friend of the team and we look forward to continuing to sling paint with him.</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>Our second new member is Mamba.  Not only is he new to <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> but he is new to paintball as well.  Before he started playing as a guest of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>at the <A HREF="#april_19_2008" TITLE="Latest News"><U>Pev's outing</U></A> and the <A HREF="#april_4th_6th_2008" TITLE="Latest News"><U>Day of the Immortal's 26-hour Event</U></A>, he had only played paintball once or twice.  You would have never known that if you watch him play.  Mamba has the heart and willingness to command any attack he faces.  He's aggressive, yet patient and quite as a mouse, but he is dedicated to the team and loves the challenge of a good battle. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> </B></I></FONT></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia </B></I></FONT>looks forward to a future with both of these great players on the field and seeing them wear the colors of the old men that have the distinction, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#669900" FACE="Arial" ><B>Aim-Eliminate-Take.A.Nap</B></FONT>.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="june_8th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>June 8th, 2008</B></div> <div> Normandy Landing</div> <div> A Hogback Mountain</div> <div> Big Game Event</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>We knew it was gonna be a hot one when we woke up the morning of June 8th, 2008 and found that at 0730 hrs, the temperature was already at 83<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Courier New" >°</FONT>F and the humidity was 75%.  However, that wasn't gonna stop <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> from attending the Hogback Mountain Normandy Landing Big Game.</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>In attendance for this event was old men Spudcrazy, Leg-Man, Zeylor, G-Man, Migraine, Compulsion, and Mamba, and young guns Shadow and Siege.  Accompanying us were several friends of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, including Rabbit.  OMM set up camp in our usual spot, however, this time Spudcrazy used a generator to supply electricity for no less than four fans to keep us cool; this was a Godsend.  With tons of liquid to keep us hydrated and after the obligatory safety briefing and splitting of teams,<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> (Allies) headed up the mountain to the Allied safety area.  Spudcrazy would prove his place on the team as he headed up the hill without the most important piece of equipment, his paintball marker.  Thanks to the rest of the team, he didn't get far before he was made aware of his senility.</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>With the Allies in their landing craft, which was located on the back side of the Mountain field, and the German's posted on the beachhead, the game started a bit late, but with a roar of excitement.  Our fearless field commander, Larry (Team Alptraum), held <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia </B></I></FONT>and a few other players back in order to perform a parachute drop behind enemy lines.  This proved to be a bit futile as some of the eliminated German's saw our setup position and probably relayed it back to the fighting forces as they reinserted.  Most of the paratroopers (<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT>) were eliminated almost immediately.  However, the tactic achieved its goal of distraction and after several minutes, the Allies were able to break out of the beachhead and push the German's back.   Since the Allies cleared the Mountain field of all German forces, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> decided we would try to flank the Valley field and come up to attack the Fort.  This was a struggle but a fun fought battle.  Leg-Man and Zeylor managed to allow three Germans to walk right up on their position before taking all three of them out for the easy elimination.  Compulsion then used his lightening fast trigger finger to poke around the Valley netted area to pick off OPFOR in the heavy pine woods of the Fort field.</div> <div>               <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >G-Man and Shadow where extremely successful in flushing out snipers dug in to the Jungle field.  These German snipers were cool, calculated, and surprisingly patient.  They definitely caused headaches for the Allied forces trying to cross the outer banks of the Jungle field, but nevertheless, the old man and young gun cleared the way.</FONT></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>Most of the day found the Allies advancing all over the field with relative ease.  Several times, the Allies were told to hold their line and not advance in order to give the German forces a fighting chance and to keep the fun in the game.  Although frustrating at times, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM</B></I></FONT><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> </B></I></FONT>agreed these were the right decisions, otherwise it would have been too one-sided and players would have walked off the field not only due to heat exhaustion but in frustration as well.  The heat overwhelmed many, many players, both old and young.  As a matter of fact, Rabbit fell victim to the heat and exhaustion and spent much of the lunch break bringing up his breakfast.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>has now dubbed him UpChucker!!!!  Lunch also marked quitting time for several <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>players as well.  Migraine, Shadow, G-Man, and Siege wisely took R&R due to their aggressive efforts and the overwhelming heat and humidity.  Compulsion found his way to his car shortly after the afternoon battle started back up.  Heat can be a killer and safety is of paramount importance to OMM.  The afternoon heat and humidity grew even more oppressive.  He who hydrates and rests today lives to fight another day.  Leg-Man, Zeylor, Mamba, and Spudcrazy managed to avoid any symptoms or ramifications of the heat, stayed well hydrated and fueled to make it through the entire battle.  Even UpChucker (Rabbit) stayed in the fight, although we didn't think that a wise choice!!!</div> <div>               <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >The afternoons' battle, with fewer players due to so many departing, was more of the same; constant battles all over the field, and the Allied forces finding it easy to maneuver at will.  For his efforts, Spudcrazy succeeded in one personal achievement and one game changing charge.  For the personal achievement, he and one other player managed to successfully tag in to the German respawn barrel without being shot and with no air left in their tank.  At one point, about six respawning German's saw and engaged them, but after only “tossing” some paintballs their way, they retreated allowing for free movement to the barrel.  The game changing charge involved Spudcrazy single handedly taking out a wicked cool double Invert Mini, full auto machine gun nest behind enemy territory.  After taking out the two gunners, he proceeded to take out about 30 OPFOR in the back with their own machine gun, before finally getting discovered and eliminated.  It was quite comical when the Germans (red players) were yelling up to him that they were “red” and him yelling back “cool, because I'm blue”.  All this was a blast, but the final nail in the proverbial German coffin was after the machine gun nest was rendered insignificant, Leg-Man and Zeylor swept behind enemy line and once and for all, completely surrounded the German forces and took control of the Fort field.  At that point, it seemed as though the fight was out of the German forces and without being eliminated Leg-Man, Zeylor, Mamba, and Spudcrazy departed the playing field and headed back to camp for the compulsory nap. </FONT></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>Although extremely hot, the day of play was extremely fun and exciting.  Hogback still has some work to do on these big games, such as getting them started on time and making sure the referees don't give away player positions.  However, John Greeley has gone a long way in improving the organization and fun of the games.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> would like to thank him and the rest of the Hogback staff for their hospitality and loyalty to player fun.  From our standpoint, this was one of the most standup games <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>has ever attended in regards to sportsmanship and camaraderie.  Not a single problem with players, paint, or equipment.  As always, we are proud to call Hogback our home field.</div> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="april_19_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>April 19, 2008</B></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.pevs.com/parks.asp?h=p" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.pevs.com/parks.asp?h=p"><U>Pev's</U></A> Field Review</div> <div> <B>              </B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Joined by associate member Zeylor and Mamba, Spudcrazy ventured off to try yet another Virginia paintball field.  Variety always being an ingredient in the game of fun, Pev's @ AG was the next logical field to test out, besides the fact that it was only 6.2 miles from where my (Spudcrazy's) wife was attending a bridal shower...</FONT></div> <div>                  Driving to the field had it's typical rock and gravel entry road, with lots of ruts to spare, but no different from every other field that paintball players have ever been to, this field was no exception.  Upon arrival, we were surprised at how crowded it was for a regular walk-on day, however, parking was absolutely no problem.  The flat, well groomed, fairly decently organized gravel parking lot had space for atleast 100 vehicles, if not more.  The registration building also served as HPA fill station and pro-shop, as well as having an adjoining covered picnic area with hot dogs and food, along with the CO2 station.  There was easily room for a couple of 100 players to sit at a lunchroom type picnic table organization.  Registration was easy as it has been at every field.  I should note, though, that had it been a rainy day, I don't think mud would be a problem like it is at our home field, Hogback.  Gravel and mulch covered the roads and walking areas and the staff that drove the ATV's made it a point NOT to drive were customers would have to be walking.  This is a HUGE issue at Hogback Mountain that needs to be addressed before the ATV's erode more of the trail leading up to the playing fields.</div> <div>                  Chronoing consisted of the average of three shots under 290fps.  Since I never go over 280fps, this was none eventful.  A sticker "dot" placed on your hopper lid indicated chrono completion.  One thing that was particularly different from other fields is that they announced the safety briefing over a PA system, so that there was no question when and where it was to be held.  Safety briefing was typical and on time.  Also, spots checks of chrono and ramping was done with great frequency on the field, much to my delight.</div> <div>                   Playing started with an announcement on the PA for all walk-on's to meet at the staging area and then we would be escorted to the first field of play.  There was no less than 75 players, however, we had plenty of ref's joining our group, about 7 refs.  Much to my surprise, the three head refs were all adults of atleast 25 years of age.  They all held radios for communication and were extremely attentive to the game.  Each field played was briefed and the refs gave tips and strategy for wins.  We typically played flag type games.  The only problem I saw with the reffing is that they did not enforce the penalties that they dictated for rule violation, they only restated the rules after witnessing a violation.  This lack of enforcement did nothing to alleviate the few problem players that were found as they knew the could keep playing that way.  However, all in all, the reffing was fantastic.  You never had to ask twice for a paint check on yourself or an OPFOR, because there was plenty of refs covering the field.  Also, the games ran consistently with little wait time in between.  Never did I see refs just hanging around chatting between games.  When a game ended, they hustled up to start a new game.  Having said that, I would say the reffing staff and AG staff were great and well organized.</div> <div>                  On to the fields....  This review speaks strictly from the viewpoint of a woodsballer/scenarioballer.  AG has plenty of variety of fields, from heavily wooded, to woods with structures, to airball, and X-ball.  Walk-on's typically play a woodsball rotation.  All the fields are relatively flat, however, hiding spaces are very, very limited.  Bunkers are generally made up of open-gapped pallets.  Most of the woods there are pines or cedars, so there is very few trees wide enough to hide behind.  However, with lots of brush and low cut pine and cedar trees, longballing was almost none existent.  Hogback and Splatbrothers have the woodsball field all over Pev's@AG, lots more hiding spaces and natural bunkers, unlike AG.</div> <div>                 Even though I thoroughly enjoyed myself, the play was not as good as I usually see.  Since Pevs@AG caters to speedballers, most of the game was spray-n-pray.  Also, due to the limited hiding spaces, tactics weren't that effective against the heavy gunners.  Mainly, who ever could throw the most paint at the same time would carry the game and since we had no experience with the field, we couldn't strategize at all.  The addition of a hopperball day would be excellent for this park, but I don't see that happening here.  However, Zeylor, Mamba, and myself were able to rally our side into a few rushes that were quite successful and fun.  Also, there is no 20' rule and I can assure you, I became victim to a short ranged paintball to the noggin', however, no fuss, I actually like this in that you can bunker players without having to backup and you can sneak up on a player without a ref giving your position away when telling you to back up.</div> <div>               All in all, I liked Pevs@AG.  I didn't witness any of the problems I have heard about, other than the normal stuff that is at every field.  It's a great alternative and will start playing there more often.  However, for OMM and myself in particular, I still prefer the woods fields at Hogback Mountain and will still call Hogback Mountain the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> home field.  Hogback Mountain is definitely a lot more "beginner" and woodsball friendly.  With their unique hopperball day and there great terrain for woodsball, Hogback is still the field of choice, but Pevs@AG is a great alternative for something different.</div> <div>             Prices: $18 walk-on fee, BYOP, and $13 all day air or $3 for a 3000 fill and $5 for a 4500 fill.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="april_4th_6th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>April 4th-6th, 2008</B></div> <div> Day of the Immortals</div> <div> Splatbrothers and Tommy Hill Production</div> <div> 26-Hour Scenario Event</div> <bR> <div> <I>It is now time for the Gathering, when </I><I>all the Immortals will gather in one place to battle among themselves to see who will be “the one”.   The EVIL IMMORTALS, "The Chosen", are here to fight the mortal friendly "Elite", and build a machine that will release a toxin into the air that will render the entire human race into mindless drones.  And so the story begins....</I></div> <bR> <div> <I><B> T</B></I><I><B>eam Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > set out once again to Hopewell, VA to do battle at Splatbrothers Paintball PARC. This outing took OMM into the fantasy battle of good versus evil in the Day of The Immortals 26 hour scenario based on a popular science fiction television series. Having repeatedly learned our lesson on traffic, Alzheimer's you know, we departed Friday after dinner to avoid the D.C. metro and I95-I64 rush hour.  This plan proved prudent, and we actually got there without fighting stop and go traffic the whole trip.  The first to arrive about 7 p.m. and begin establishing the OMM Command Post and rest area were Migraine, and our new team medic, Shadow.  Spudcrazy, Mini-Me, Alvaro, and Brandon reached the rendezvous about 9 p.m.  and Sabot Ranger, Leg-Man, and Aegis linked up around 10pm.  Also, guest Mamba and his buddy showed up for only their third time playing paintball.  (I gotta say, as only their third time playing, these two guys are gonna be a force to reckon with very, very soon.)  As soon as we started to unload our gear, the gods decided to pour rain on our campsite, along with every other diehard paintballer at Splatbrothers. Despite the intermittent deluges OMM remained hard corps, and cheap as always, as we quickly, with practiced precision and teamwork established the CP. Partnered with DeadByDawn in our camping spot we battened the hatches for the night and conducted rehydration and chow operations. Thanks to Ronn and Don's excellent camping area markings. And special thanks for the porta-potty option. OMM supports and personally endorses the porta-potty!</FONT></div> <div>                   With the CP established we began discussing the weekend's battle.  Coastie, or should I say General Katanal, stopped by camp but gave us his battle planning and strategy consisting of, “Have fun.” In the Chosen planning forum, (ssshhh, it's a secret) Sabot Ranger given his extensive field experience and numerous scenarios under his belt had offered and been asked to serve as field commander for Coastie. The fit seemed perfect. The position was not to come into play as Katanal opted out of field commanders and apparently using an XO as well. Later, Corndog, captain of OFU stopped by with some very valuable planning of his own.  He asked <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> to be the Chosen's far side tapeline attack, defend and counter attack platoon, which we graciously accepted.   Sleepy time commenced and all was quite, EXCEPT for the Anarchy generator!!!!  OMM don't need no stinkin' air conditioner…or to be dry... or warm… or fed…” Sniff…sniff…”  We drifted off to sleep to the sound of rain beating on our tents, tarps, cars, mud and those `ballers who had not yet perfected the “establish CP” battle drill.</div> <div>                  Saturday mornings' weather was no better than Friday evening. However, right at the start of the game briefing, the rain subsided.  Spudcrazy volunteered to tape The Chosen players since he knows all too well from his generaling days the power of deception.  He was vigilant that a deceiver would not sneak through any cracks.</div> <div>                  At 11o'clock, the bird banger sounded.  Both sides of the playing field were equally loaded with great players and teams.  The Elites had some of our favorite teams to play with and against including; Capital Offense, Assault & Battery, Anarchy, MERCs, Black Wolf Core, SoVa, and many more.  It was hard for us to oppose these teams, but we knew that integrity and fair play would be paramount among them.  Also, on the Elites were the powerful BeBop, RATS, and some Team Krisis players.  The Chosen would have their work cut out for us.  OMM on the Chosen, were accompanied by Seek&Destroy, PubCrawling, Smoke&Mirrors, SouthSideKillaz, OutlawCrew, IHW, and others.  We knew that the Elites would have their work cut out for them, too.</div> <div>                   The opening plan was for the two powerhouse teams, SaD and PubCrawling to attack the enemy CP right off the get-go, -easier said than done!  The Elite put up a superb defense and most of Saturday's battles never crossed the '50' with many `bloody' skirmishes on the flanks.  This would be a fun game.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> only took a few missions, but managed to accomplish every one of them, including a personal mission by Sabot Ranger and a recon that Spudcrazy supported by OMM friends Mamba and his buddy, took deep into OPFOR territory.  A 30-minute recon of Cheeseburger Hill made it within 3 minutes of mission complete when the Elite, this time led by team Anarchy, with the support of the MERCs, decimated our small recon division.</div> <div>                   By producers default, Shadow was handed a MEDIC card, but in <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>fashion, he took on the responsibility and we are proud to say that he is now our official team medic.</div> <div>                   The day was met with many back and forth battles.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, although we didn't get the recognition, led quite a few raids and were usually one of the first to cross the `50' in order to push the Elites back to their base.  Sabot got into the Elite trenches, with Goofa and Mini-me in support. Leg-man got across the `50' and led an attack through the barn to flank the trench line while Alvaro and Mamba pushed through the chicken coup slinging paint on the Elite reinforcements. All in all it was a great battle. Surprisingly enough,<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> suffered our fewest numbers of trips to the dead zone than ever before.  Fortunately or unfortunately, we rarely encountered the teams or players we most like to run with, Anarchy, Assault&Battery, and the MERCs.  However, we did get to battle our other ally team, Capital Offense, quite a few times, one of which found Mini-Me taking out a sliding captain, David Thompson.  The mud sucks!!! hehehe...  Of note, was one particular fight were Spudcrazy was the only Chosen hold up on the Elite side of the village.  He managed to stay in position, picking off Elites for upwards of 15 minutes.  During that time, the Elite had an insertion window which drew RedDevil (MERC) out of the deadzone, only to see Spud's position.  "Oh no!!!"  Spudcrazy knew what was in store.  Within minutes, a rain of back and forth paint between Spud and RedDevil finished both players off, but not before laughs and hi-fives between the two were given.  That's what paintball is all about!!!</div> <div>                    For the first time in quite awhile, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> decided to take the field at night.  Rest is important to us! Sabot Ranger, Leg-Man, Spudcrazy, Alvaro, and Brandon took to the dark field.  For more than an hour, we managed to walk around and hold off some of the Elite.  Leg Man used Coastie's thermal imager and detected an early push by Capitol Offense. Spudcrazy was forced to general for about 45 minutes while General Katanal was out in the staging area sword fighting for his life. Capitol Offense deftly used their night vision and after a hail of paint between OMM and CO we proceeded to get nearly decimated.  Led by Leg Man with a mission card we headed out to patrol and defend the speed ravine. Another encounter with CO and night vision ended with another hailstorm of paint and our mission nearly complete.  It was late and time we headed back to recharge the batteries and share camp life with our compatriots, so we left the field and headed back to camp to hang with the coolest team around, DeadByDawn!!!</div> <div>                    With the game neck-in-neck, Sundays play was more of the same....rain, rain, rain.  However, the Chosen managed to push the Elite so far into their own territory on Sunday that the Chosen had to stand-down until the Elite could regroup.  This was partly due to the incorporation of the new "no Hot Insertion" rule.   If the Elite had been granted a hot insert, the game may have been much different and could have given the Elite their night time point lead back and it may have even changed the dynamic of the game.  </div> <div>                    All in all, a fun weekend of paintball, but very rainy.  What do you expect in Virginia in April? The weekend ended with a hard fought final battle that found the Chosen, once again, on the offensive and victorious.  The Chosen had won the battle and the game.</div> <div>                    This game found many new and different twists.  There were personal missions, random OS cards, and off field "nerfie" sword fights that delved into the theme of the game.  Rules were different and some confusion went to the Elites as far as personal missions went, which found the Elites losing on day one by a huge amount, only to figure out how to regain their points later.  Role players abounded and the spirit of the game was definitely in play.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM </B></I></FONT>shot paint against teams that they usually side with, but found that to be only an asset to the game since those teams integrity never had to be questioned.  As always, despite any conditions<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> had a blast.</div> <div>                   However, this AAR can NOT be concluded without some words of recognition; DeadByDawn, in particular, Zeylor, Kali, Vader, Shadow, Zox, Swampy, HudsonHawk, and Coyote (Ultimate Ref), as always, thank you for your camaraderie, friendship, and hospitality.  Your company at camp and on the field is most definitely the highlight of our paintball scenario outings.  And what can I say to <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#6633FF" FACE="Arial" ><B>Vader</B></FONT>, the camp "Kitchen Bitch", you are awesome.  You not only feed us with your wisdom, but with your cholesterol and cholesterol filled yummies....  For everyone on <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, thanks a bunch.  You are a welcomed improvement to our camp fire (and generator) anytime... </div> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="march_9th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>March 9th, 2008</B></div> <div> Ia Drang Campaign:  Vietnam Conflict</div> <div> A Hogback Mountain</div> <div> Big Game Event</div> <bR> <div> <I>The battle of Ia Drang Valley sees the Americans surrounded by numerically superior Viet Cong. It is the first significant engagement between the two forces.</I></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>                  </B></I></FONT><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > arrived in force at the Hogback Big Game, on a crisp Sunday morn, March 9th, 2008.  The weather decided to cooperate, the rain stopped, clouds parted, and the sun shined through, but the wind and the cold temps remained throughout the day.  Sabot Rangers' previous night meal provided the team with an abundance of methane gas causing anybody or anything to lay waste within a 10' perimeter.  </FONT><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > set up base camp and team member’s (Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, Migraine, Shadow, Leg-man, Goofa, Mini-Me and G-Man) checked in as blue team (Americans).  Compulsion was unable to attend due to a bazaar gardening accident, and Siege absent due to being sick, but both were there in full spirit.</FONT></div> <div>                     Once the big game safety briefing was complete and sides were balanced, both teams sloshed through the mud to their respective safety/command bases.  The American safety zone was on the Mountain field, however our 'headquarters' where in the Fort, go figure!!!  This was not a scenario in the conventional sense.  There was no set command post from which all missions, tactical descisions, and reinsertions were made, instead, instant regeneration was the play of the day, and this happened by touching any one of two different, dynamic respawn barrels.  This proved to be tricky, as the barrels could and would be moved from time to time, hence <I>dynamic</I>.<IMG SRC="2f2f4d20.jpg" border=0 width="244" height="210" ALIGN="RIGHT" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <div>                     It was decided OMM would support Aegis in attacking jungle and protecting the fuel depot.  Upon initially entering the Jungle, heavy concentrations of Viet Cong were located just beyond and around the fuel depot.  With good team communication and the quick tactical assessment skill of Sabot Ranger, OMM led the drive to force the Viet Cong back to their respawn barrel.  Viet Cong tried flanking, kamikaze runs, long balling, wiping, all without success.  Well over a half an hour the team held the Jungle position.  The jungle was owned by <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> & Americans; no Viet Cong could enter without meeting an American paintball.  At the request of the refs, OMM & the rest of the American force, halted their forward movement and were requested to retreat from their position to give the opposition a fighting chance.  In the meantime the Fort was in danger of being overrun.  The call went out to team <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> to assist in pushing back the Viet Cong.   Team OMM rallied and headed toward Fort.  At Fort, OMM met the impenetrable Hogback “tank” (a tank that cannot be destroyed by LAWs, grenades, or paintballs.).  Once again, Team OMM was meet with heavy concentration of Viet Cong in and around the Fort, including the tank.  Spudcrazy took a one man sniper position above the Fort field, leading into the pines.  From this position, Spudcrazy was able to take out numerous Viet Cong until his position was given away by an over-aggresive American platoon.  UpDog was able to navigate Pines while low crawling and took out numerous Viet Cong with the support of Shadow as his wing man.  Through good team work and communication, team OMM drove the Viet Cong back to radio tower and over ran yet another of their respawn barrels.  During the heavy battle, the Viet Cong tank ran out of air and was disabled.  At that point, the refs requested we hold position or pull back, to give the Viet Cong another fighting chance.  The entire day was dominated by the Americans and was a bit one-sided since <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Milita</B></I></FONT> was seemingly able to advance where ever they wanted.</div> <div> <I><B>                  </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Spudcrazy’s solution to the VOX problem worked, but numerous “Sabot … where are you?” is the only remaining kink to be overcome in communications.  </FONT></div> <div>                      <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> would like to thank John Greeley for inviting us to play at their big game  In addition, we would like to thank the Hogback Mountain ref staff, and to all those involved in field improvements, we are very impressed, and the field is improving by leaps and bounds. Finally, a big shout out to Aegis, an associate member of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team OMM</B></I></FONT>, for leading the American team to victory!  We look forward to playing another Hogback Mountain Big Game in the near future.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="february_15th_17th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>February 15th-17th, 2008</B></div> <div> MXS 26-hour Scenario Event</div> <div> Siege of Stormwynd</div> <div> Camp Blanding CTF  Starke, FL</div> <bR> <div> <I><B>                  </B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >The planning for this trip started in the early weeks of January, with details about transportation, registration, paint, directions, and what to expect at the Blanding facility.  Special thanks goes out to Hudson Hawk, of DeadByDawn, for coming to our meeting and cluing us in on what to expect for this game.</FONT><I><B>              </B></I></div> <div> <I><B>                 </B></I>After weeks of planning, the trip started on Thursday evening with the packing of the 12-passenger Ford Econoline rental van.  Believe me, this was probably one of the hardest missions of the entire trip; packing all of our equipment and leaving enough room to spread out during the 12-hour haul to Florida.  Nevertheless, Sabot Ranger arrived at Spudcrazy's house around 2000 hours and put the final touches on the packing.  All was well.  </div> <div>                  Wakeup call was at 0230 sharp and G-Man and Siege arrived at Spud's doorstep at 0255, right on schedule.  We loaded into the van and proceeded to pick up the anxiously waiting Goofa and Mini-Me, who spent the entire evening playing video games.  We were on I-95 heading south at 0330, precisely on time.  The trip down was uneventful as the old men did the driving and the young guns did the napping.  Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, G-Man, Siege, Mini-Me, and Goofa arrived at the Camp Blanding facility was 1530, Friday, February 15th.  Compulsion would make his arrival the next morning.</div> <div>                   After setting up camp (thanks to DeadByDawn for saving prime real estate right next to the Horde insertion point), <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> (with the absence of Compulsion) conducted a tactical site survey of the facility and Sabot Ranger led us on some MOUT exercises for clearing rooms, hallways, and stairwells.  The anticipation of the battle was killing us.  The rest of the evening found most of the team on a grocery run, while Spudcrazy held down the OMM and DeadByDawn campsites.  </div> <div>                   Saturday morning finally arrived and so did Compulsion.  We attended the mandatory players briefing and got setup to do battle.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> missed the first insertion, but was ready to do battle 15 minutes after the start of the game.  Our first task was to make our way into the city and start seizing buildings.  The opposition, the Alliance, had their CP based in a perimeter building within the city, while our CP, the Horde, was some 100 yards inside the woods.  We were at a distinct disadvantage.  However, that didn't stop OMM from pushing against all odds.  Our first push found the seven OMM members alone, running into a hail of paintballs, trying to get to the center of the city.  This was futile due to the absence of support.  We were all immediately eliminated.  The very next insertion found us getting right back in the thick of things and making our way into the heart of the city.  Make no mistake, this was tricky and sometimes extremely close combat.  After running into a smallish shop, Sabot Ranger got taken out by an OPFOR that was low crawling on the outside of the building and shot through a murder-hole one cinderblock up from the floor.  However, this gave away the opposition's strategy and the rest of OMM, along with Sickboy, from Assault&Battery were able to thwart their remaining assaults.</div> <div>                     The remainder of the day was much like any other scenario, with battles brewing everywhere, but little to no room-to-room combat like we were hoping for.  Mini-Me, Goofa, Spudcrazy, Coyote (DBD), and RedDevil (MERCs), lead numerous raids in the thin woods on the boundary of the city, which pushed back some 30 Alliance members, from our 6 or so Horde members.  In the meantime, Sabot Ranger, Compulsion, and G-Man lead missions inside and elsewhere around the facility.  Siege spent the majority of his time as a gunner on the DeadByDawn tank.</div> <div>                       Saturday night's stand-down had the Horde up by a small margin.  However, it was a bigger victory considering our disadvantage of real estate.  As is typical, OMM did not play the night game.  This proved to be a wise decision, as our general was lackluster and the Horde got summarily squashed.  Base overruns were mainstay for the evening.  The rest of the evening was mostly uneventful with the exception of a few idiots who, at 0300, decided to shoot of Bomb Bags in everyone's camp and the fact that Goofa, once again, spewed his dinner all over camp!!!</div> <div>                       Sunday was much the same as Saturday, the Horde retaking the city time and time again, but the Alliance picking up valuable props and gaining “style” points.</div> <div>                       The final battle found the majority of the facility closed off.  This was a true bummer as it ended up being a paint slinging fest with no real tactics to be able to be used to meet the final objective, which was no more than a mobile bunker in the middle of a courtyard.  However, the conclusion found the Horde occupying the objective with a push in the final seconds of the game.</div> <div>                         The post game briefing was typical.  Fortunately for Spudcrazy, he won a PCS Tactical vest in the random drawing.  OMM was thanked, along with the numerous teams that sided with the Horde, but special thanks was given to Mini-Me for his exemplary advances on the Alliance strongholds.  </div> <div>                          The final score was a margin of only 13 points, with the Alliance on top.  In my honest opinion, that is a win for the Horde, considering our disadvantage in CP location, and our non-participating General.  All in all, it was a fun experience, but this Old Man Militia member will not soon be traveling a 12-hour distance in the near future for a paintball game.</div> <div>                           Another deduction was that Sabot Ranger's lessons on tactics and communication has really paid off.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> played as a unified squad and was quite effective in advancing the Horde army.  It was not uncommon to hear both Horde and Alliance members commenting on <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia's</B></I></FONT> effectiveness and playing ability.  This was quite a compliment to us, considering we were only a squad of seven, when many of the other teams were much larger.  Thanks to all who noticed and recognized us, we appreciate the compliments.</div> <div>                           Many thanks to be given to team DeadByDawn and the ShangGang for feeding us and putting up with us at camp.  And to all the great Splatbrothers teams, in particular, Assault&Battery, MERCs, Splatbrothers Bozo's, Krisis, RATs, OMEN, and everyone else, thanks once again for a great time.</div> <bR> <div> <I>In attendance for</I> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>:  Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, Goofa, Mini-Me, G-Man, Siege, Compulsion.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="january_26th_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>January 26th, 2008</B></div> <div> Battle of Inchon:  Korean Conflict</div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/inchon" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/inchon"><U><I>After Action Report</I></U></A></div> <div> Written by:  Sabot Ranger</div> <div> <I> The North Korean army, led by general Shrub of OFU has pushed the South Korean army back far past Seoul. The battered, demoralized, and under-equipped South Koreans cannot hold off the NKPA's advances even with American reinforcements.</I></div> <div>                Responding to the call, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia </B></I></FONT>once again headed south from our home turf of northern Virginia and DC to fight for the forces of freedom and democracy.  Supporting General Ricky “SickBoy” Wilson of Assault & Battery, commanding all US landing forces, OMM members; Sabot Ranger, Migraine, G-Man, Compulsion, Young Guns; Shadow and Siege, associate member; Aegis, and OMM friends Mr. Waternoose, (Brian Kaye) and friend, with Sabot's niece Brittany and her boyfriend, Matt, made a formidable assault force.</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >               </FONT>Following a brief and unpleasant encounter with the Virginia Highway patrol, Sabot rallied with Aegis and then executed a perfect in-stride linkup at the intersection of I-295 and I-64 with G-Man's van of fellow patriots.  <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> arrived at Splatbrothers PARC at 0830, set up base and established comms with fellow teams<I>, Anarchy, SOVA, Corn Dog (OFU), Li'l John (DBD),and  Chowda (Assault & Battery). </I></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >               </FONT>Sabot led the OMM contingent for this particular conflict while Spud fought the evil lines at the land of Yemick Soume.  After linking up with SickBoy to solidify the marine and OMM strategy, he conducted a quick team brief.  At SickBoy's special request, Shadow was detailed to be aide de camp to the Commanding General.  His duties were much the same as General Lee's aides; conduct specified reconnaissance, be prepared to take the generals plan (armband) into hiding when required and protect the general.  Shadows commitment to duty and performance was rewarded with the team's first ever <A HREF="awards.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Awards"><U><I><B>YOUNG GUNS MVP: Shadow</B></I></U></A>.  Thank you, SickBoy, for the honor.</div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Much like the original battle, the day opened with the Americans pushed back on their heels at the landing point.  Shrub's forces continued to try to push the landing forces off the beach and into the ocean.  In response, Team Anarchy conducted a flanking assault while OMM reconnoitered the enemy reinforcement position.  After identifying the enemy strong point and leading a spoiling attack, OMM reinserted and SickBoy ordered us to “Take the Towers of Power and supporting trenches.” </FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >OMM, with partners from SOVA, several skilled walk-ons, and Assault&Battery, swept to the trenches while SickBoy brought the heavy guns up from the beach.  This action proved to be the highlight of OMM's day and the turning of the tide to favor the beleaguered landing force.  With the additional firepower, the North Koreans were pushed out of the western tower and OMM successfully led another assault to take the tower in its entirety.  Needing our requisite nap, OMM continued to hold the towers and resupply as needed until retaking the offensive some time later.</FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >In the final battle, OMM played key roles in denying the North Koreans the towers and objectives and assaulting the newly developed objectives.  Despite the effective and deliberate offensives of the US forces after establishing and expanding the beachhead Shrub's army had accumulated more points. </FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Overall, Inchon was a nicely done experience.  Though the initial crushing offensive of the overwhelming North Korean's numbers made for a rather one sided first half, the battle back at the end was worthy of the scenario.  The refs were uniformly helpful and attentive.  The paint seemed to be thin and brittle and was rather problematic.</FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >The weather was fantastic. By the afternoon it was great playing temperature. Just cool enough to keep you from overheating.  OMM helped out some of our newer compatriots with their gear.  Teaching, mentoring and sharing with new players is enjoyable and we received many thanks.</FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >For our friends that played with us, it was an entirely enjoyable day.  One player, Brittany was most memorable.  As Aegis said, “Rarely have I seen so bloodthirsty a new player.”  We hope our new friends will join us whenever we are at Splatbrothers.</FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Everything pretty much ran on time with rules and prizes at 0900 hrs, game starting at 1030 hrs, break at 1530 and final battle at 1600 hrs. Ronn and Don's prize package seemed to have grown significantly for this game.  The full tally of OMM winnings in addition to new friends, fun, fatigue and a few bruises was: </FONT></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700c800000000.png" HEIGHT="13" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A new electric marker, akin to a mini for Migraine,</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700c800000000.png" HEIGHT="13" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Proto 98c Aluminum .690 Barrel </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700c800000000.png" HEIGHT="13" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Proto cocker Aluminum .690 Barrel </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700c800000000.png" HEIGHT="13" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Pair of Dye Gloves </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700c800000000.png" HEIGHT="13" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Battle Swab </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700c800000000.png" HEIGHT="13" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A RAP4 Barrel Bag</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="january_10th_2008"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>January 10th, 2008</B></div> <div> <I><B>                Team Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >  is pleased to announce the newest members of the group.  G-Man and Compulsion have joined the ranks of the old men (although Compulsion is stretching the younger limits), and Siege (G-Man's son) has integrated into the ranks of the Young Guns.  All three of the gentlemen have played numerous walk-on's and attended scenarios as guests and associate members of </FONT><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >.  Compulsion brings the speed of the younger "old men" along with his fast trigger finger but total willingness to wait for the prime target before making the elimination in complete covertness.  G-Man and Siege are a father-son team that can traverse and creep through the terrain to take out enemy opposition with minimal recognition to their location.  </FONT><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > welcomes them to the group and looks forward to many OPFOR eliminations in the near future.  Welcome aboard G-Man, Compulsion, and Siege.</FONT></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="december_2nd_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>December 2nd, 2007</B></div> <div> <I><B>               </B></I><I><B> </B></I><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > conducted another tactical team practice. John Greeley, the manager of Hogback Mountain Paintball, was generous enough to let us use fields for exclusive practice and tactical training. Most all of </FONT><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > was in attendance, along with newly appointed associate members, Compulsion, G-Man, and Siege, and guests, Aegis and Nicodemous.</FONT></div> <div>                  The practice began at the staging area with a brief review of our November 1st meeting and a general walk-thru of squad position and responsibilities for basic individual and buddy team movement. This was soon followed by a trek up to the Mini-Bunkers field where we practiced these skill in force on force mini-battles. We included squad and buddy team drills. From there we progressed to the Jungle field where we worked on more combined team and squad maneuver and communications against an impressive OPFOR comprised of Compulsion, Aegis, and Nicodemus. This proved to be extremely helpful as Leg-man and G-Man maneuvered their teams in support of each other. We then reversed roles on maneuver and defend before breaking for a “fun fight” on Castle field where we practiced buddy team maneuver against each other before breaking for lunch and the rain settled in. Thanks to Migraine for reffing despite his walking pneumonia!  What dedication to the team.</div> <div>                   Yet another paintballer has been named as an associate member of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>.  Aegis, a member of Spec4 at Hogback Mountain Paintball, brings with him energy and enthusiasm that will leave the OpFor running for cover.  He is a faithful old-school paintballer, toting around his Palmer Pursuit Pump and Tac8 pistols.  Even though he isn't shooting an electro marker, Aegis is never afraid to get in the thick of things and go for the run thru.  We hope, like all of our associates, that he becomes a full member as he will be a great addition to our squad.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="november_4th_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>November 4th, 2007</B></div> <div>                   Sabot Ranger and guests (Compulsion, Aegis, Sandbox, MAJ David Gercken, and son, Nick) attended OA Paintball's 8-Hour scenario, Operation: Angry Serpent, a scenario with a Star Wars theme.  This was <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>'s first time attending a scenario at the Bowie, MD, OA Paintball field, although not the first for Compulsion.  All stated that the weather was absolutely gorgeous and made for a great day of slinging paintballs.  Overall, they were satisfied with the level of play and theme of the scenario.  OA Paintball scenarios will be put on the 2008 schedule for sure.  Of special note was Compulsion's generosity in lending Sabot Rangers buddy, a complete gear setup, including marker, tank, and other gear, without hesitation.  Thanks a bunch Compulsion!!!          </div> <div>                   We are pleased to announce that Compulsion has become our newest associate member of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>.  Compulsion has played paintball with us at Hogback Mountain, VA, Operation Cobra, 8-Hour scenario at Splatbrothers PARC, VA, and most recently at Operation: Angry Serpeant, 8-Hour scenario at Outdoor Adventure, Bowie, MD.  He is extremely skilled and experienced and is not afraid to get into the action.  OMM is looking forward to playing future events with him and hopes to soon make him a full member of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="november_1st_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>November 1st, 2007</B></div> <div> <I><B>                  Team Old Man Militia</B></I><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > held it's first ever "team" meeting at Spudcrazy's house.  We had a successful lesson on team tactics, lead by Sabot Ranger, an ex-Army Ranger in his previous life.  It was extremely constructive and we look forward to putting some of the ideas and tactics that were discussed, into practice.  Hopefully, this will be the first of many regularly schedule meetings.</FONT></div> <div>                    In addition, G-Man and his son, Siege, has become the latest to join the rank of associate members of Old Man Militia.  G-Man has played many rec-ball days with us, as well as attended the 8-hour R.A.W. Series scenario, Operation Cobra, at Splatbrothers in Hopewell, VA.  Siege is a young, enthusiastic gunner, who will fall under the watchful eye of his fellow YoungGuns, led by Mini-Me.  Siege has also participated with OMM at Operation Cobra, but has played fewer rec-ball days than his father, but nevertheless, we are excited to have them try out our team.  They both will be accompanying OMM at the Splatbrothers Charity Game, Santa vs. Grinch, on December 16th, and plan to attend the MXS Blanding game in Florida, in February, 2008.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>November, 2007</B></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>                  Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> is featured in the November 2007 issue of Paintball2Xtremes paintball magazine.  <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/Press/PB2X_OMM.pdf" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/Press/PB2X_"><U>(click - NJ-NAM Article)</U></A>  Bill "Migraine" Wood led the brigade for the 2007 NJ-NAM scenario in Williamstown, NJ back in June of this year.  With him was OMM-YoungGun, Shadow, and OMM guests, Nicodemus, Kathleen, and Gorilla.  Way to go for representing <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> in our first national paintball magazine...</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="october_13th_14th_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>October 13th-14th, 2007</B></div> <div>                   Due to various reasons, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> was not able to attend as players at the MXS 26-Hour Scenario, "Village of the Damned".  However, the captains of the team, Spudcrazy, and YoungGuns prelim-Captain, Mini-Me, attended the event in a refereeing capacity. Spudcrazy was tasked with being the Human side base ref, while Mini-Me was a field ref and during the night portion, was the Seedling side base ref. The response from Ronn, Don, Mother, Trips (MXS Ultimate Ref), and RickM (SB Ultimate Ref) were that both Spudcrazy and Mini-Me did an outstanding job.  Ronn Stern couldn't complement Mini-Me enough for his vigilence and ability to stand up to players and his williness to "punch" player cards when the need arose.  Although prefering to play, refereeing enabled both to see a whole new perspective of the game (along with being able to witness the entire night time play).</div> <div>                   Representing <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> in a refereeing capacity, Spudcrazy was surprised to be awarded a <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" title = "Awards" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" tit"><U>Sportsmanship award</U></A> from the Human General, Sir CornDog (OFU), with concurrence from the Seedling General, Jet (BeBop), and MXS's Mother, for his positive attitude, williness to be part of the event when playing was out of the question, and for maintaining a fair but fun atmosphere with respect to both reffing responsibilities and gamesmanship.  Spudcrazy is especially grateful, as this is an award not normally given to a referee, rather to a player in the game; he is truly honored to be selected for the award.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="september_22_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>September 22, 2007</B></div> <div> Old Man Militia has officially welcomed Shadow to the<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Old Man Militia - Young Guns</B></I></FONT> chapter.  Shadow, the son of Migraine, has played with the team at multiple walk-on outings as well as many of the Splatbrothers R.A.W. Series 8-hour scenarios and the MXS 26-Hour scenario, Dark Angel.  He is extremely enthusiastic and takes direction well.  As an associate member of the team, Shadow has been quite an asset in gunner support as well as taken to a demolitions role at the last R.A.W. scenario, <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com/cobra.htm" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com/cobra.htm"><U><I><U>Operation: Cobra, American Break-Out</U></I></U></A> .  We are happy and proud to have another father-son duo on the team.  They will compliment the original duo of Leg-Man and Goofa, perfectly.  Welcome aboard, Shadow...</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="september_15th_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>September 15th, 2007</B></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >               </FONT>The fifth and final installment of the Splatbrothers Real American War (R.A.W.) Series - 2007, <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com/cobra.htm" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com/cobra.htm"><U><I><U>Operation: Cobra, American Break-Out</U></I></U></A>  found Anarchy member, <I>Farva</I>, commanding the German Army against <I>Mars </I> of Team BeBop, General of the American forces.</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >               </FONT>The weekend started on Friday afternoon, with Migraine, Shadow, Sabot Ranger, Mini-Me, and Spudcrazy, of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, setting up camp with the aide of G-Man and his son, Siege.  Other guests of OMM in attendance were Nick Sr. & Jr., Rabbit, Pwned8p, and Compulsion.  UpDog arrived early Saturday morning.  Friday night was plagued by heavy rain all night long; however that didn't stop the camaraderie of fellow paintballers to stop by our camp.  At about 2200hrs, a meeting was called by our general (Farva), to discuss tactics.  Based on the new complexities of the opening battle, Sickboy (Assault&Battery) and Spudcrazy (with the aide of Sabot Ranger) devised a plan to successfully complete the opening battle mission.  This plan proved to be sound.  Following the meeting, we all retired to our sleeping quarters, only to be witness to a flood in Migraine and Shadow's tent (along with their two uninvited frog guests).</div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Saturday started around 0700hrs, with the sky threatening rain.  The players briefing was accompanied by a light drizzle, but no less for the weary.  The opening battle was explained, followed by the standard rules and prize giveaways.  Reminiscent of the actual Operation: Cobra, the opening battle was to be fought from the Towers of Power field in a scenario that would mimic the Americans being held up in the Hedge Groves of France.  The German forces were to hold and defend two flags located on the back of the towers field for fourty-five minutes.  Only a touch of either flag by an American fighter would loose the battle for the Germans.  However, if successfully defended, the Germans would win the points.  A valiant effort was made by the American forces, however they failed to complete the objective and the Germans retained the flags.</FONT></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>Upon completion of the opening battle, each force was to retreat to their respective command posts and re-“tag-in”.  Since the Americans CP was adjacent to where the initial battle took place, they expeditiously reinserted and were on their way to assault the German CP.  For some reason, the German's took their time and was immediately met with an offensive force.  This set the tone for the day.  On a lighter note, the clouds parted and the remainder of the day was absolutely beautiful with temperatures in the mid-seventies.<I><B> </B></I></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>The battles were hard fought and members of <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> and the <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>OMM Young Guns</B></I></FONT> did quite well doing what they do best; sneaking and peaking and eliminating opponents.  Most of the day found the American forces at the Germans doorsteps, however, there was still plenty of fun to be had and the modifications to the Splatbrothers field added to the variety of battles to be obtained.</div> <div>               <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >At 1630hrs, stand-down was called and preparations began for the final battle.  The final battle was to be a two flag game and which ever sides flag was hanging on each objective at the end of the hour, received a significant number of points.  This would be an instant re-insertion battle.  For the first forty minutes, the German's maintained flags at both objectives.  Mini-Me did a fantastic and instrumental job defending the flag at Spearpoint.  However, the American's quickly advanced in overwhelming numbers and managed to pull the German colors and hang their own.  In addition, the American's wisely sent some of their players around the far-side flank, only to make life extremely difficult for the re-inserting Germans to mount any kind of additional offensive.  This proved to be the final straw and the Americans took both objectives to win all the points for the final battle.</FONT></div> <div>               <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >The conclusion of the 8-hour scenario resulted in the American's handing a tough defeat to the German forces.  However, as with all paintball scenario games, this one ended with shaking hands and congratulations by all players involved.</FONT></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>At the prize and awards ceremony, many of the great teams and players were honored with well deserved awards. <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Team </B></I><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> was once again fortunate enough to receive an <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Award for</B></I><I><B> Sportsmanship</B></I><I><B> </B></I></FONT>(see <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards"><U>"Awards"</U></A>).  Our General of the German force, <I>Farva</I>, stated that we played with heart and dignity and that our conviction to both the pre-game planning and regulation play warranted the label of Team Sportsmanship and for that we are grateful and honored.</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >              </FONT>This scenario has likely ended <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>'s 2007 scenario season (with the possible exception of the December 24-hour game at Splatbrothers), but we will still be practicing and getting ready for the 2008 year.  We will be nursing our aches and pains and working on team tactics as we prepare for the future of battles that we will face in the upcoming season. Since, as a team, we have completed the entire R.A.W. series at Splatbrothers PARC, we are planning to extend our outreach to meet other teams and players and diversify our scenario play and practices to other parks in the coming weeks and months.  Doing this will broaden our skills and help us be a better, more diverse team.</div> <div>               <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >So to all the teams we have played with at the R.A.W. scenarios; Assault&Battery, Anarchy, OFU, Dead By Dawn, Seek & Destroy, OTC, MERC, BeBop, Krisis, RATS, TSSOC, PsychWard, SpryeBane, Capital Offense, DeadRingers, Pale Horse, and the many, many others, THANK YOU, it's been a blast.  And to the friends, SHOAL, Chowda, Sickboy, CornDog, Deva, Pimp, Buzzard, ThinMan, Fabio, Jet, Otto, Severe, Voodoo, Traffic, all of DBD, we look forward to playing both with and against you all next year.</FONT></div> <div>               <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Finally, Ronn, Don, RickM, JesseJames, and the Splatbrothers.  You all are simply the best paintball promoters anywhere.  We'll be back again and again, keep up the great work. </FONT></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="june_16_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>June 16, 2007</B></div> <div> <I>For a General's Perspective, click the AAR below:</I></div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/okinawa" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/okinawa"><U><I>After Action Report</I></U></A></div> <bR> <div>                  <B>JAPANESE ARE VICTORIOUS!!!!</B></div> <div>                   The fourth installment of the Splatbrothers Real American War (R.A.W.) Series, <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com/okinawa.htm" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com/okinawa.htm"><U><I>Battle for Okinawa 8-Hour Scenario</I></U></A> pitted <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia's</B></I></FONT> own Spudcrazy against Otto of Team Krisis.  This being Spudcrazy's generaling debut, he commanded the Japanese Empire against General Otto and his worthy American Marine Corps. </div> <div>                    On a sunny Saturday morning, with temperatures in the mid to upper 70's, a record breaking R.A.W. crowd was gathering.  After the mandatory safety briefing, both the Japanese and American teams took to the field.  Unfortunately for the Americans, they where followed by a mole, which was planted long before the game ever started.  CornDog (OFU) would convince General Otto that he was loyal to the American Marines and that it was his mission to destroy the Divine Wind and liberate the Japanese island of Okinawa.  Little did the American General know, but CornDog was working for the Emporer Spudamoto, as he would be referred to on the Splatbrothers forum pre-game smack talk.</div> <div>                    The battle started at 10:10am with both teams aiming to gain as much field real estate as they could.  Spudamoto decided he would spread his troops across the width of the field in order to create a baracade of warriors and samurais.  This proved effective as the Americans were held within their half of the field.  Great teams such as Capital Offense, Assault & Battery, Seek&Destroy, Anarchy, OTC, OFU, MERC, Santa's Rejects, Dead By Dawn, Dark Angels, Pale Horse, Rogue Cell, and many others, along with the multitude of walk-on's help stay off the Americans for the majority of the day.  However, led by Team BeBop and Team Krisis, the American Marines managed to overrun the Japanese CP once and threaten it a second time.  However, fortunately for the Japanese, the General was not there to be taken.</div> <div>                    The Americans led a valiant effort the entire day and into the final battle.  With such outstanding teams like Krisis, BeBop, Rooster, Sentinel, O.M.E.N., R.A.T.S.,  TSSOC, Staggering Mayhem, and all others, there was never a time when the Japanese victory was certain.</div> <div>                    Fun was had by all and at the end of the day, the weeks of planning and strategizing by the Japanese army proved successful and the Rising Sun won the day over the great American forces.  General Otto took his defeat gallantly, as one would expect from an American Marine and the two General's shook hands and offered a peace accord until next they meet on the battlefield. </div> <div>                    The day ended with more free prizes, awards, and lots of Girl Scout cookies.  Battle stories will abound and the healing process of those little round welts will begin.  And so all of the teams and walk-on's left Splatbrothers as one family of paintballers waiting until the next battle begins.</div> <div>                    A special thanks, as always, to Ronn, Don, JesseJames, Rick Martin, and the rest of the Splatbrothers staff for putting on another great game.  They, along with all the above forementioned teams are why OMM will keep coming back to play the game they love to play....PAINTBALL!!!  And let's not forget Migraine, who so graciously gave up four cases of Girl Scout cookies to be handed out to the raging crowd?  Thanks Migraine.  Also, a special thanks Aegis and to Migraines and Shadow's guests, PatSplat, Nicodemous, Kathleen, Nick Sr., Nick Jr., and John Nee...</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="may_12th_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>May 12th, 2007</B></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >               </FONT>Despite an initial plan for low team attendance at <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com/starlite.htm" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com/starlite.ht"><U><I>Operation Starlight 8-Hour Scenario</I></U></A>, <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> just couldn't get enough of Ronn and Don and the vaunted paintballers known to frequent the Splatbrothers field. So, OMM established the camping CP Friday evening in preparation for the battle between the infamous Coyote, Davi Valazquez, generaling the Vietnamese side and his understudy nemesis, LilJon Grimsley, commanding the US side. </div> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >               </FONT><I>Operation Starlight</I> continued Splatbrothers' Real American War series into the Vietnam conflict. The scenario was set in August 18, 1965, when the U.S. Marine Corps launched the first major military operation of the Vietnam War named "Operation Starlight." Two Medals of Honor were awarded, the first of the Vietnam War.</div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >There were many firsts for this particular weekend. OMM managed to have everybody, except Migraine, occupy in force the evening prior. Sabot Ranger's son, wife, nephews and niece (and her boyfriend), occupied the campsite for hot dogs, corn on the cob, pork and beans on the grill and flashlights in the night. </FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >In preparation for the momentous fight between the two friends as opposing generals, the forums were filled with pungent and raucous smack talk. Participating teams' loyalties were already torn when, Mini-Me and Goofa managed to sneak into the US command post during darkness to post more than 400 psychological operations and propaganda flyers.</FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >As the player briefs began, Splatbrothers began the briefing acknowledging the sacrifices of the Marines at this particular battle as well as the many men and women currently in uniform. Coyote echoed this sentiment and reminded all the players to have great fun keeping in mind that “we can play and have fun because of the sacrifices of all the service members past, present and future. Let's remember their sacrifice by having fun for and honoring them!” With that the teams whooped and hollered and headed to their respective CP's.</FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >The battle was heated in more ways than one. The temperature and humidity were high as was the energy demonstrated by the teams. OMM took on the role of Coyotes' “flex players” taking on missions, counter-missions, hasty defenses, or attacks, as needed. </FONT></div> <div>    <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >CP's were assaulted, defended, overtaken, retaken and missions won and countered.  Much like the “Real War”, it was a prolonged give and take among;  OTC, BeBop, Krisis, RATS, OFU, Assault&Battery, Anarchy, DeadRingers, MERC, Seek&Destroy, and great players, Hudson Hawk, SHOAL, Trapper, and the many, many walk-on's and other great teams.</FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Spudcrazy, armed with his brand new homemade LAW and escorted by an OMM and Assault&Battery security force, swept across the enemy right flank and launched a rocket at the enemy CP for the first general kill of the game (and scaring the doo-doo out of the CP ref).  Also, an unarmed Mini-me and Goofa, after getting within 15 feet of the enemy CP, were forced to surrender when compromised by Trapper's independent attack. The OMM Young Guns then headed back to their CP to pursue and thwart a numerically superior enemy attack on the backside of our CP. </FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Observing another heavily armed enemy platoon attempting to flank Coyote's CP, Sabot Ranger and Leg-Man established a hasty ambush position along the main road. With the majority of the force in the kill sack Leg-Man opened fire and Sabot closed the door on them soundly defeating the enemy force and forcing them into “the walk.”  And, as is his usual style, UpDog managed multiple snipe kills from the deep depths of the newly sprouted heavy brush in the backwoods of the battlefield. </FONT></div> <div>                <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Due to the impending lightning storm and severe weather Ronn and Don had to waive the final battle for player safety, always the primary concern. When all was said and done the teams managed a tie. Everybody left happy, tired, painted, and appreciating their ability to play this great recreational sport at a great field.</FONT></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>May 2, 2007</B></div> <div> Team Old Man Militia is sad to say farewell to Firewall, a recent addition to the team associate roster. After an appropriate period of assessing each other's paintball and social goals, Firewall and OMM have mutually decided to end his associate membership. There are no hard feelings, whatsoever. This is exactly what associate membership is supposed to do: let the player and team get a closer look at the nuances of the team and membership. We enjoyed playing with Firewall and look forward to seeing him around the fields and campfires that are woodsball and wish him well.  We feel he'll be a great addition to whatever team he lands on.   <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>~Team Old Man Militia~</B></I></FONT></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>April 11, 2007</B></div> <div> Firewall has become our newest Associate Member of Old Man Militia.  Firewall has played paintball with us at Outdoor Adventure, Bowie, MD, Hogback Mountain, VA and most recently attended the MXS 26-hour Scenario, Dark Angel.  He is very enthusiastic about team spirit and participation.  He brings with him sniper experience and willingness to belly crawl and sit for long lengths of time, to be sure to engage and then eliminate his targets.  However, like the rest of OMM, he is plagued with aches and pains, which makes him a prime candidate for full membership and a welcomed associate member.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="march_31___april_1_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>March 31 - April 1, 2007</B></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia </B></I></FONT>headed south once again to Splatbrothers Paintball Park in Hopewell Virginia for the kickoff of the 2007 “spring” scenario season March 31st to April 1st.  MXS teamed with Splatbrothers' dynamic duo Ronn and Don once again for an outstanding 26 hour scenario inspired by the television hit thriller “Dark Angel”.</div> <div>                April Fool's weekend was going to be one heck of a paintball scenario battle in Hopewell, Virginia.  Teams from across the region joined in for the fun. The Dead By Dawn new mechanized tank's inaugural appearance at Splatbrothers was an ominous sign.  Fresh off the battlefield of Florida's Camp Blanding MOUT battle this tank has it all; DBD skulls, blasting psyops stereo, rotating turret, twin cannons, an ammo rack that could supply an entire mechanized division and oh yeah, it shoots paint and nerfs like it is surviving Armageddon.  A big thanks to the many great teams and walk-on's that showed up to make this game so great;  Seek&Destroy, Dead by Dawn, OTC, Pub Crawling, Assault&Battery, Trapper of the Virginia Irregulars, Anarchy, BeBop, Capitol Punishment, Dead Reckoning, Own the Day, OFU, Dark Angels, Team MERC, Pale Horse, The Rats, Krisis (with their awesome motorized tank),  Black Wolf Core, Psych Ward (thanks for sharing your two pugs with <I>both</I> sides), Santa's Rejects, Sprye Bane, Porkchop Express, Dyslexic Pirates, RTD, Freedom Warriors, Praetorian Guard, Cobra Company, and the many more teams and walk-on's.  Awesome game.</div> <div>               The futuristic scenario of <A HREF="http://www.mxsportz.com/invasions/games/2/story.html" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.mxsportz.com/invasions/games/"><U>DARK ANGEL</U></A> pitted the millennia-old conclave of the Breeding Cult against genetically enhanced humans, the Transgenics.  The (in)famous Pimp of Seek&Destroy commanded the Breeding Cult forces with Coastie (SaD) as his second in command, while the Transgenics were ably commanded by Pub Crawling's Eric "lemonade" Thomsen with Malcolm 'Maniac' Manuk as his XO.  The lively pre-game smack talk, friendly banter and weather promised a very competitive season opener.  More than 400 players were registered for the battle.</div> <div>                Friday night loomed gorgeous as the visibility was 100% illumination for a packed lot of campers and RVs.  The weather was crystal clear and cool.  OMM set in on their campsite and enjoyed the camaraderie and esprit de corps with guest players, Firewall, an OMM conspirator and Sabot Ranger's brother-in-law from Oregon, Bill “Swamp-Man” and Migraine's son “Shadow.”   The OMM guests led by Spudcrazy conducted a leader's recon of the field while Sabot and the others settled in for quiet libations and raucous war stories.</div> <div>                Saturday's sunrise showed that every square inch of camping space had filled overnight and this promised to be one heck of a battle.  Ronn and Donn had perfected the registration, paint pickup, and chrono process.  Even with so many players it was smooth as broken paint on the enemy's back!</div> <div> “Mother” gave her famous opening inspirational safety pitch and orientation.  The referees and teams were introduced and prizes were tossed.  The generals were officially introduced with the requisite continued smack talking.   And more than 400 players headed out to the field.  On the starting gun, Pimp's Breeding Cult surged out to take center field and ran amok in Pub Crawling's CP.  The battle then surged back and forth all day with skirmishes taking place across the field and CP ownership coming and going.  OMM took the requisite nap during the nighttime battle as the clouds moved in turning visibility to barely 20% illum.  It was during this lull that the Transgenics managed to score some missions and by morning it was a 5 point game.</div> <div> Sunday Morning kicked off bright and early. Ronn and Don had clearly sold their souls for weather this whole year.  The ensuing hectic battles for terrain and missions were like the front lines in WWI-some wins and some losses always a pressing fight.  Then final battle rang out.  The event kicked off with each team comprised of ten players taking positions on each side of the tower of power. On the gun the teams then fought to take the center tower and as soon as that was accomplished the whole field melee commenced.  The Transgenics managed to take and hold the tower of power despite many human wave assaults by Pimps able players.  When the final bird banger banged the Transgenics had held the tower and thus won the day, barely.</div> <div>              As the awards were passed and prizes presented Migraine SCORED with a brand new in the box X7!  Also, Migraine showed that he had taken his little blue pills by Commanding Team Psych Ward’s PUG for one battle. After a quick orientation he strapped it on and proceeded to pursue the red enemies with vigor. That is until he needed a nap whereupon he took a quick snooze between slaying the red armbands.  All in all a two day great battle.</div> <div>             <B><U>In attendance:</U></B> Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger, Leg-Man, Goofa, Mini-Me, and Migraine, along with guests, Firewall, Shadow and Swamp-Man. </div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="february_24_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>February 24, 2007</B></div> <div>            On February 24th, 2007, in Hopewell, VA, <A HREF="http://ww.splatbrothers.com" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://ww.splatbrothers.com"><U>Splatbrothers Paintball</U></A> hosted the 2nd game of five, in the Real American Wars, R.A.W. series, 8-hour scenario games.  This event attracted nearly 250 paintball players to re-enact <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com/chosin.htm" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com/chosin.htm"><U>The Korean Conflict - Battle of Chosin Reservoir</U></A>. This game pitted the U.S Marines against the Chinese Communist Army to re-enact the brutal battle that took place in the freezing cold temperatures of northeastern Korea.  However, we would see if history would remain intact or be rewritten in the paintball fields of south-eastern Virginia.</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> served the American side commanded by General "Chowda", with Devastator (Team Anarchy) and CornDog (OFU) acting superbly as his field commanders. The Chinese Communist Army was commanded by General “Syndicate” of Team MERC, with Koala (MERC)<I>,</I> his second in command. This event marked the first command for both generals. </div> <div> Following a night of camping in the 19<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Microsoft Sans Serif" >°</FONT>F temperature, OMM and several other participating teams suited up and prepared for battle. With the command post's (CP) not quite at opposite ends of the field, the battle ensued precisely at 10 o'clock AM. The U.S. Marines quickly advanced on the Chinese CP and, throughout the day, managed many overruns and general kills of the Chinese high command. Team Old Man Militia led and participated in many successful missions, including one where Sabot Ranger (bouncing from window to window) was mistakenly taken for five opposition soldiers and managed to hold the Splathouse for the designated mission time.  All in all, Team OMM had a blast.  As always, we were honored to play along side great teams, such as OFU, <A HREF="http://anarchy-paintball.tripod.com/index.html" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://anarchy-paintball.tripod.com/inde"><U>Team Anarchy</U></A>, Black River Wolverines, <A HREF="http://www.teambebop.net/" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.teambebop.net/"><U>Team BeBop</U></A>, <A HREF="http://www.dcterror.com/" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.dcterror.com/"><U>DC Terror</U></A> (American MVT), <A HREF="http://www.sogpsychwardpaintballteam.com/" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.sogpsychwardpaintballteam.com"><U>Psych Ward</U></A> and members of Knight Stalkers. Having fun alongside players like CoastieOutlaw (his kids, Kayla and Trisket), from <A HREF="http://www.seekndestroypb.com/home.html" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.seekndestroypb.com/home.html"><U>Seek&Destroy</U></A>, the infamous Trapper, from the Virginia Irregulars and members of DeadByDawn, and the numerous talented walk-ons that made the event even more fun and challenging.  We were opposed by the fantastic <A HREF="http://www.mercpb.com" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.mercpb.com"><U>Team MERC</U></A>, Team Resistance, Dark Angels and Smoke&Mirrors (Chinese MVT), along with their walk-on players.</div> <div> Of note, although the U.S. Marines completely destroyed the Chinese Army by more than 800 points, General “Syndicate” of the Chinese never lost his head and never gave up. In this teams' opinion, Lazarus “Syndicate” Boone should be remembered as one of the classiest, honorable, and most sportsmanlike generals ever to play the game. This fellow took a ton of pre-game smack talk and was overrun more times than anyone cares to mention, but throughout it all, he kept a smile on his face and showed everyone what this game is all about, and that's to go out and have FUN. Kudos to Laz.</div> <div> Lastly, as always, Ronn, Don and their staff did a fantastic job of running a smooth, fun, and exciting game for all that attended. Now if we could only find a way to get them to dig up the whole 100 acre field and plant it closer to D.C.</div> <div>            <B><U>OMM News:</U></B>  We've officially welcomed Migraine to the Old Man Militia.  He has participated with Old Man Militia in practices, Battle of the Bulge, and Chosin Reservoir, and has proven his qualifications to be an old man that is dangerous with a paintball marker.  In Chosin Reservoir, he managed three CP overruns and was instrumental in protecting our CP on the single occasion that it was to be overtaken. Welcome aboard Migraine…</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="january_20_2007"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>January 20, 2007</B></div> <div>             <A HREF="http://ww.splatbrothers.com" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://ww.splatbrothers.com"><U>Splatbrothers Paintball</U></A> hosted a game on January 20th, 2007, in Hopewell, VA, that attracted nearly 200 paintball players to their <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com/bulge.htm" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com/bulge.htm"><U>Ardennes Offensive - Battle of the Bulge</U></A>. The eight hour scenario re-enacted the WWII Ardennes Offensive, which put the Germans against an unprepared American Army, to see if history would remain intact or be rewritten in the paintball fields of south-eastern Virginia.</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT>, serving this time on the American side, commanded by General "Devastator" of Team Anarchy, with Vadar acting as his XO, was once again honored and selected as <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Most Valuable Team</B></I></FONT>, in addition to being chosen as the<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B> Most Feared Opponent </B></I></FONT>(see <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards"><U>"Awards"</U></A>). </div> <div> The German opposition was superbly commanded by “Tater” of OTC with Chowda, his second in command.  From the beginning moments of the battle, the Germans seemed to easily overrun the American command post (CP) and infiltrate our communication frequencies.  Old Man Militia, quickly deciding, with the support of their commanding general, led expeditions outside of the common missions to disrupt and delay the German attacks.  One such expedition, led by Spudcrazy, with Mini-Me and Goofa, took advantage of a “hot” insertion and made a “b-line” directly for the German CP.  After half an hour tromping through the deep woods they managed to take out the German CP, along with General “Tater” and his XO.  In addition, Leg-Man foiled an almost completely successful ploy by a German fighter, to blow up the American CP with a paint grenade.  However, due to his cunning instinct and distrust for the Germans, he could not convince the fighter to drop his weapons, thus Leg-Man took him out and spoiled the attempt!!!  Sabot Ranger, UpDog and guest, Bill "Migraine" Wood, successfully led many covert missions deep into enemy territory, to thin out the offensive of the German forces.  However, despite all the effort, the Germans managed to re-write history and came out victorious.  The German's were made up of many great players and teams, such as Seek and Destroy, DeadByDawn, OTC, PaleRider, M.E.R.C. and many walk-ons.  Old Man Militia had the great honor to play along side Team Anarchy, Dark Angels, other great teams ,and of course many other walk-ons, which comprised the American force.  As usual, Ronn and Don did an outstanding job of creating and managing the game, while the Splatbrothers reffing staff kept the game moving smoothly and fairly.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>December 17, 2006</B></div> <div> Brewer has become our newest Associate Member of Old Man Militia.  Brewer has played paintball with us at Hogback Mountain, Anne Arundel Paintball and most recently, Outdoor Adventure in Bowie, MD.  He is a go-getter and has quite the team spirit.  Unfortunately, he is due to return to Baghdad for the last part of his work.  However, he has made it clear that when he returns, he plans to fully commit to being part of our squad and to sling paint with the rest of us.  We look forward to his safe return and ask that everyone keep him in your thoughts and prayers while he is working in that volatile part of the world.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="december_3_2006"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>December 3, 2006</B></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia</B></I></FONT> selected as <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Most Valuable Team</B></I></FONT> (see <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" title = "Awards" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" tit"><U>"Awards"</U></A>) at the Splatbrothers/<A HREF="http://www.ubi.com/US/default.aspx" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.ubi.com/US/default.aspx"><U>UbiSoft Inc.®</U></A> <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com/rainbowsix/index.html" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com/rainbowsix/"><U>24-Hour Scenario event, Rainbow Six</U></A>.  On the weekend of Dec. 2-3, 2006 in Hopewell, VA, <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com"><U>Splatbrothers Paintball Park</U></A> hosted the game which put more than 100 Rainbow Six patriots up against roughly the same amount of aggressive terrorists.  General "Pimp" of <A HREF="http://www.seekndestroypb.com/" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.seekndestroypb.com/"><U>Seek & Destroy</U></A> commanded the Rainbow team with Spudcrazy (Team OldManMilitia) acting as his XO.  There were many missions, ranging from capturing hostages, rescuing villagers, occupying terrain, reconnaissance and patrols, to name only a few.  Rainbow’s MVP, "ThinMan" of Seek&Destroy was remarkable as a team leader and advisor.  But it was the Rainbow team, as a whole, who conquered all that the terrorist had to offer.  The “terrorists”, led by General "RebelGod" (<A HREF="http://www.snafupaintball.com" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.snafupaintball.com"><U>Team SNAFU</U></A>) and his worthy XO, Coastie (Team Krisis), managed to complete several missions including one General kill.  However, in the end, it was Rainbow Team that was victorious.  Playing alongside and against teams such as Seek&Destroy, SNAFU, M.E.R.C., Krisis, BeBop, Porkchop Express, Resistance, Pale Horse, Mosby's Raiders, and Dark Angels, and many, many skilled walk-ons, Team Old Man Militia rose to the occasion.  With only Spudcrazy, Sabot Ranger and associate member, Zeylor (<A HREF="http://www.deadbydawn.org" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.deadbydawn.org"><U>DeadByDawn</U></A>), Old Man Militia took on and successfully completed all of the missions handed to them.  Sabot Ranger and Zeylor, together, ran and successfully completed numerous missions and provided team winning support to aid in the victory that was Rainbow Teams'.  As X.O., Spudcrazy had a personal mission to rescue a civilian ("Coyote", DeadByDawn) from the middle of a gun fight, which he was able to complete within four minutes (although his aging physique almost require he be rescued from the ravine by the civilian that he rescued ;( ).  All in all, it was a fun weekend.  The reffing staff at Splatbrothers did a remarkable job, as always and Dwight's missions were not only fun, but challenging as well.  Of course, how could we forget Ronn Stern and Don Hager, the park owners.  With their ever positive attitude and cheery disposition, this game couldn't have been the success it was.  Ronn and Don always make Team OMM feel at home at their park, as do they for every person that steps foot on the property.  The weather was perfect.  Team Old Man Militia looks forward to many more scenarios at this facility.  Thanks again Ronn and Don and thanks to all who came out to participate in Rainbow Six.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>December 1, 2006</B></div> <div> Zeylor, of DeadByDawn, has become our first Associate Member of Old Man Militia.  Zeylor has played paintball with us numerous times at Hogback Mountain and at Skyline Paintball.  He brings with him plenty of scenario experience from his primary team, DeadByDawn.  It was Zeylor that introduced Old Man Militia to scenario paintball and he actually played a large part in our decision to form a team.  To that, we thank him and are honored to have him as an associate member when he is not playing under DeadByDawn.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B> <A NAME="october_15_2006"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B><B>October 15, 2006</B></div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Team Old Man Militia </B></I></FONT>selected as <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B>Most Valuable Team</B></I></FONT> for the German side at the MXS 26-hour Scenario - The Western Front.  Leg-Man, Sabot Ranger, UpDog, Goofa, Mini-Me and Spudcrazy accomplished what they didn't think was possible for only their second major scenario event, a <A HREF="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" title = "Awards" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.oldmanmilitia.com/awards" tit"><U>Most Valuable Team award</U></A>.  Of the four missions handed directly to Team Old Man Militia, we successfully completed three of them, with the one failed mission of taking over the enemy headquarters. However, the enemy headquarters were well hidden deep in the woods with plenty of bunkers to protect it, along with being in a corner (besides there are only six of us)!!!!  Furthermore, just about every other daylight mission contained atleast one member of Old Man Militia.  Ourselves, along with numerous other teams and walk-on's, participated to rewrite history, with Germany defeating the British at the end of the weekend.  Team Knight Stalkers controlled the night time play with their Gen3 NightVision, simply awesome.  Some of the great teams that we had the honor to play beside were:  Knight Stalkers, Seek & Destroy, W.A.S.P., Santa's Rejects, Texas Roughnecks, Smoke & Mirrors, Section 8, and many others (sorry to anyone I missed!!!).  On the British side was:  Dead Ringers, Team SNAFU,  Red Rovers, Spyre Bane (kilt wearing paintballers), Outlaw Crew East,  Rebel Force, PorkChop Express and many others (sorry to anyone I missed here, too!!!).  Last, but certainly not least, on the Brits was our favorite team DeadByDawn.  These folks are the classiest bunch of paintballers you ever want to meet.  Thanks to our General, Heir Don "Twister" Hager and our XO "Trapper" for their great leadership, and kudos to the British General, the one and only Ronn Stern and Coyote, of DBD, the British XO for the great job of keeping the Germans on our toes.  It was a great weekend and we can't wait to do it again!!!!  However, now we must nurse our soreness and prepare for another day.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>October 6, 2006</B></div> <div> Warhawk is the latest to be inducted into the Old Man Militia.  He brings with him the skills of a true Army soldier.  He's got the patience to hold his cover and limit his fire, but when called upon, will lay down some serious paint in support of his advancing teammates.  He's also been known to capture a few flags and lead the team in major offensives.  We hope to introduce him to his first big scenario in December, for the UbiSoft 24-hour Rainbow Six Scenario.... </div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>August 20, 2006</B></div> <div> We've officially welcomed Mini-Me to the Old Man Militia - Young Guns chapter.  Mini-Me brings with him speedball experience and ability to play as part of a team, rather than individual.  He carries our team ethics of playing fair and fun.  Since he's small, he's able to hide and pop out quickly for the elimination.  He'll be joining the rest of us in October, to defeat the Brits for the 26 hour MXS scenario, <A HREF="http://http://www.splatbrothers.com/mxs.htm" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://http://www.splatbrothers.com/mxs."><U>The Western Front</U></A>.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>July 11, 2006</B></div> <div> We've officially welcomed UpDog to the Old Man Militia.  He adds covert skills that allow us to advance after he begins to clear the way.  He's not afraid to snake around on the ground and he has the added benefit that he's in shape enough, that he can actually get up after he's been crawling around....He'll be a great benefit at the <A HREF="http://www.splatbrothers.com/mxs.htm" TARGET="_blank" TITLE="http://www.splatbrothers.com/mxs.htm"><U>Western Front</U></A> in October, 2006....</div> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>