Bill T
Well-Known Member
Hey Guys , this is just a preliminary report on a Military Build I'm working on . Alot of things still need to be worked out though , so bear with me . The main things I'm trying to accomplish with this Build , will hopefully eliminate the concerns of our previous Build ; that being knowing the Name of the recipient and then delivering it to him .
I'm going to put it out right at the beginning of this - - This Build is going to ask more of the Maker than before . But I guarantee you , the rewards are Greater .
There really aren't any easy ways , believe it or not , to get knives in the hands our soldiers once they are deployed . Unless you are a soldier in a particular unit , you wouldn't know about deployment dates , and that info isn't broadcasted - for obvious reasons .
It can be done to a certain degree , but it still puts us at a disadvantage , as things change - constantly . There is no way of knowing for certain - as a public forum . And even if you were best friends with a General of a particular unit , then you still can't really tell us , now could you ? So it still prevents any real opportunity for a Name to a Knife .
Still , the only way to know for certain , is to know beforehand .
Here's what I've come up with - this is the Work/Reward ..
I've been going to see a Marine Recruiter at his office a couple of times this month .
Why?
Because that's the only other way to get what we want .
Basically , the way it works is -
You find a Marine Recruiter (I'll explain why shortly) .
You explain the concept of a build-off .
While there , look around at the young faces - pick one - or 2 - or all .
Shake some hands , get to know them . You'll be making him a knife ..
The reason for a Marine Recruiter is because of the consistant time frames for Boot camp , then Adv. Inf. Training .
All Marines have a 12 week Boot camp , followed by 10 days back home , then on to a 2 1/2 month AIT . That gives a 5 month window to get it done .
Another reason for keeping it to 1 Branch is , I can have my Recruiter call a Recruiter in another city and give him a heads up , that we're on the level . That way , if Rudy says he's going into Boston on Fri to talk to a recruiter , I call the Sgt. and he makes a call to Boston . Makes things smoother ..
Basically Guys , the only way to get what you want out of this , is to go out and get it yourself .
The opportunities to meet the recipient are before Boot and on their 10 days at home . Most come back and do some Duty at the Recruitment office during that time .
I know this won't appeal to all , but it's what I've come up with . I have something else in mind for those that can't or won't . So don't worry we still need you !
I know I haven't addressed any material issues yet . I've been going over some ideas with Aldo , who has covered the steel - again ! For up to 100 knives !
I'm going to ask that no one volunteer at this time , as I am not sure what is going to be asked of you . I don't want to hurt anyones feelings ... yet . You are going to have to be a complete maker though .. knife and sheath - preferably Kydex .
I'm also going to say , being former Military (Army) , that walking into that Recruiters office did something to me . It's been a long time since I felt what I did - no words for it . If you're former Military - Please just try it , I guarantee you , you'll thank me ..
Like I said earlier , a long way to go yet . Please be patient . And please tell me what you think .
Thanks , Bill
