March 15th, 2010
Throughout the years televisions has been able to capture our favorite moments, make us laugh, and even teach us a thing or two. Military themed shows are no different. There have been sitcoms that make us laugh out loud about fanatical military generals who trick the “bad guys” and win their battles, to the drama of an army wife who goes through everything and more for their husband fighting in a war, to the legality of a lawyer demanding justice for a war crime. Whatever it is, here is a synopsis of some of the best shows that have captured the moment of a military service member.
One of the most popular military themed televisions of all time would have to be M*A*S*H*. Inspired by a novel and the movie, this sitcom follows a team of doctors and its staff based at the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital in Uijeongbu, South Korea. It takes place during the Korean War and covered a three year span of the war’s conflict. The series started in 1972 and lasted for 11 seasons, with its finale being the most watched television episode in the U.S. Much of the show took its liberties, but many of the underlying storylines were true stories of real-life MASH surgeons.
Hogan’s Heroes was another military based sitcom, which was set in a fictional German prisoner of war camp during World War II. However, in this show, the prisoners of war used this camp as a base and ran their operations from it. Using this tactic they could work against the Nazis with all of the espionage they could gather and sabotage them. Colonel Hogan routinely ticked the camp commandant and manipulated him into actually helping out the POWs, therefore the humor in the program. The award winning show ran from 1965-1971.
McHale’s Navy ran aired from 1962 to 1966, in black and white. The location for this series was the Pacific theater of World War II and the crew of torpedo boat, PT-73. Originally a one hour drama called Seven against the Sea, Lieutenant Commander Quinton McHale and his crew gained a series of their escapades. After the island they were stationed on, Taratupa, was heavily bombed by the Japanese, the base was destroyed. Only 18 men remained to take refuge on the island and go into hiding. They befriend the natives, and McHale must keep them under control. While still being watching and under attack, McHale faces these problems, among others.
JAG is a more recent drama, airing from 1995 to 2005. It is the only television show to be endorsed by the U.S. Marine Corps and the Navy. The U.S. Department of Defense actually thought the show to be a positive influence on the nation and gave producers access to military installations and equipment in order to film correctly. Many episodes feature scenes aboard real U.S. Navy ships. The show is a legal-action drama that depicts the real military life, along with the application of the Uniform Code of Military Justice and international law. It incorporates real military storylines, such as the events of September 11. 2001.
Army Wives is a very popular show that follows the lives of four army wives, their families, and their husband who is in the army. Based on the non-fiction book, Under the Sabers, the series shows the difficulties the people left behind go through when their husband is in the army. They face things such as deployments, adultery, rumors, a hostage situation, a pregnancy alone, a husband’s anger management issues developed in the war, and much more. Lifetime premiered the show in 2007, with the network’s largest premiere in 23 years. The fourth season has just been announced.
This article was written by Eric Kandell, owner of LowVARates.com and proud supporter of ProtectOurTroops, which helps make home security a reality for as many military families as possible.
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February 22nd, 2010
There are two main types of home security systems, (DIY) do-it-yourself systems and professional systems (hard-wired systems), which are installed by a company and usually provide monitored home security. DIY security systems are wireless systems that are often a lot cheaper and easier to install than the professional systems.
DIY systems can be purchased from most local hardware or home improvement stores, and can provide a great level of basic alarm functionality. They are much cheaper than they used to be, with many more choices and features available. Wireless systems start at as little as $200, and usually include a couple of door and window sensors and maybe one PIR motion detector, but do not include monitored security. With a wireless security system, you will have to expect that quality and effectiveness will not be anywhere near a hard-wired system that is professionally installed. Professionally installed hard-wired alarms are usually thought of as more reliable because there is no chance for interference, because the sensors that trigger the alarm are connected to the alarm control panel by cables. A wireless alarm system is a home security package that again, consists of a control panel and sensors, but that are connected wirelessly or virtually, eliminating the need for any wiring. So, because there is no need for wiring, you are eliminating any installation costs, but you are sacrificing reliability.
Another downside, other than the level of security provided would be that with a wireless system, you will need to change the batteries in the sensors regularly, which can be a hassle. This is something that a lot of people tend to forget, which ultimately makes the system worthless.
Wireless security systems are becoming extremely popular due to their flexibility, ease of installation and cost. Like a hardwired alarm, a variety of sensors can be added to the system such as door/window sensors, PIR movement detection sensors, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Another benefit of a wireless system is that you don’t need to install all of the added features at the same time. You can add features to your system as your budget allows.
Tags: alarms for military home owners, DIY alarm system, self installed home security alarm
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February 15th, 2010
Crime in the United States has fluctuated quite a bit throughout the years; the crime rate escalated throughout the 1980s, and reached its peak in 1993 and then began to decrease throughout the 1990s and 2000s. In 1999, the United States had a crime index rate of 4,267 reported offenses per 100,000 population representing an 8 percent decrease since previous year. In 2008, The United States violent and property crime rates were at the lowest levels recorded since1973.
There are many things that could have contributed to the falling crime rates, but it is impossible to know the exact cause. Some of the things that may have contributed are police strategies, current programs for offenders in prison and efforts to assist offenders when they are released, and incarceration for major crimes.
Recent statistics show that the crime rate could be starting to increase again. The year 2005 was overall the safest year that the U.S. has had in the last thirty years. The recent overall decrease in crime has reflected all major types of crime, with both violent and property crimes decreasing, the U.S. has reached an all-time low. The homicide rate alone has decreased over 42% since its last record high point in 1991 and was continually decreasing until the year 2005, where it has since remained level.
On the other hand, property and violent crimes overall have continued to decrease. They are not decreasing as much as they were throughout the 1990s, but unlike homicide rates they are still declining. Overall, the crime rate in the U.S. was the same in 2004 as it was in 1969, with the homicide rate being about the same as in 1966. Violent crime overall, however, is still at about the same level as in 1974, even though it has greatly decreased since 1991.
Tags: crime rates in the United States
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February 11th, 2010
Whether you are a military home owner or veteran that lives in your own home or renting a condo or apartment, having it protected and safe should be a top concern. One of the main reasons, or course, is because it provides security and privacy to you, those you love, and all of the valuables you own.
It is frightening to think of someone breaking in your home when you are gone, but even more so, having a burglar waltz through your front door when you or a loved one is home! Especially since statistics show that more than 1 million burglaries and attempted burglaries happen each year. One of the best ways to prevent this is to have a security alarm installed in your home.
When security systems first started being used, the percent of break-ins have gone down—at least with the homes that have security alarms. This proves one thing for sure: not only can alarms help catch thieves, but when they see your home has one, they will think twice about trying to enter. They have two choices: get caught or move on. Having an alarm installed is so important—it pays for itself over and over. It’s important to have a reliable one where every entrance is protected and will alert the police if it goes off.
You need to think again if you believe you are safe enough just by living in a great neighborhood with exceptional police officers. If you think you are safe because your home doesn’t have a lot of value, nor do your possessions, keep in mind if thieves have an easy way to get it, they can be tempted by less valuable items. There are many expert thieves in any given city/town, and when one breaks in, they can be hard for the police to track down.
Having a security alarm in your home is vital to making it a safer haven. The presence of one alone acts as a deterrent to thieves! It gives you peace of mind, leaving you with less stress for you and your family to worry about
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February 9th, 2010
When you are getting ready to purchase a home security system, there are a lot of factors that you must consider first. There are so many options, as well as different companies, and you need to be sure that you choose the right system for your home.
Here are the top five factors to consider before purchasing a home alarm system:
First: what are your needs? You have to ask yourself what you see as being the greatest danger for you and your family, and what you are most at risk for. There are many dangers to consider, but if you can identify certain dangers that are more likely to occur; such as, burglary, fire, carbon monoxide, and others, you will be able to find a system that offers protection in the areas that will be most beneficial to you and your family.
Second: It is important to be aware of your budget. And know how much you are willing to spend on an alarm system. By knowing what you can afford, you can focus on systems in your price range and not waste time with looking at more expensive and advanced security systems.
Third: You must think about what kind of system you are looking for; a simple security system or a more advanced system with security cameras or other added features. Both types provide security, and will help you and your family feel more secure, knowing that your home is protected.
Fourth: Another thing that you need to consider is, whether you would prefer a hard wired security system or a wireless security system. With a wireless system you are not limited, like you are with a wired system on where you can install it. Many people prefer the wireless, because of the easy installation, but it is not always the best way to go. It will depend not only on what you prefer, but also on the set up of your home.
Fifth: You have to decide if you want your alarm system to be monitored. Having a system that is not monitored will still provide security, but with a monitored alarm system you have the security of knowing that your home is being watched at all times, even when you are away.
These are the top factors to consider when choosing a home security system. There are so many different options available; but, knowing what you want and what you are looking to get from your home alarm system, can help you find the right system for your home.
Tags: benefits of an alarm, cost of an alarm, home security alarm, security system
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