Excerpt: Duke Blisser Meditates Iraq

Jane sat across from Duke, expecting to get the first utterances on any inside scoop. She wanted to hear everything.

What she heard was Duke's rendition of Rubber Biscuit from the Blues Brothers.
Everyone burst into laughter, even from the serving line behind them. They all turned toward Duke and smiled.

Duke teased "What are you looking at. Haven't you ever heard Rubber Biscuit
before?"

The laughing resumed. Duke was beaming with joy.

Jane said "I didn't know the marines would be this much fun."

"Welcome to fantasy land," smiled Duke. "Hannah Montana has it right. Life is what you make it. So why not have fun while we're doing what is necessary."

"You're not going to hear any arguments from us," interjected Jane as she noticed the others sitting down at the table.

Carol said "I see that you're in the process of making high level plans. I'm sure the strategy is well thought out."

Everyone laughed. Duke was not renowned for his detailed strategic planning. He generally left the strategy to God. He was going along as the witness who had words and actions flowing through him.