So, this is the text message I received from our son, David. He just started at San Diego State University and so I guess being away from home he wants to stay connected to dad….

Naw, I just think he's getting bored from classes, homework and new friends, most of them ladies…in a friendship way, of course.

Actually, David does read quite a bit and is a solid thinker. Likes to look at things from a slightly different perspective from "The Road Less Traveled" to "History of The Marine Corp." Speaking of David…

I am commuting to a www.weare3dm.com conference in Torrance. To miss traffic, I have been leaving early. About 5:15 this morning. So, I stop in Manhattan Beach because this is where I have been energized by brothers in arm on retreat the few years. Three times a year we gather for "Stammtisch," but that is a topic for another time.

Anyway Dave, you know how Manhattan Beach is an affluent community that places a high value on exercise. Saw this in the dark this morning about 5:30 when about a dozen, mainly late 20's/ early 30's mainly women (one older gal), started taking the beach like at Omaha Beach in Normandy.

Led by a Master Sergeant looking dude who gave me a half smile and casual salute when I walked by.

So, what get's young men and women up at 5 a.m. to be drilled by the man for about an hour?

What?? Why??