Several — young men (boys) were visiting John’s range with their fathers to check out the testing and watch John shoot. When a break in the intensity came — no when Emil made a break in the intensity — he introduced all of the Testing Team and talked to the young men and their fathers about what was going on with the testing protocol.

Emil spoke of the honor of shooting for the United States Of America, and preparing for victory.

Emil explained how shooting in competition brings strength and character to your individual discipline and core — who you are and who you become. That it is discipline and not desire that determines you destiny.

Emil spoke proudly about his beloved United States Marksmanship Unit and the pride and benefits of serving your country. There was no broken speech, no having to think what he was going to say, and no talking down to them — he engaged them in his passion and from his heart — it was real. They were captured by his every word and never even blinked during the inspiring 30 minute presentation.

I also remember a time when Emil was not present at a large and important shooting match. Why you ask? He was accompanying the flag-draped casket of a fallen hero back to his family. His call of duty.

Hard nosed. Yes. Compassionate, yes, Complex, hell yes. Organized, to the max. A planner and executor of the plan, every time. And of course, a world class shooting and wind reading resume supreme carried by a warrior and a winner.

SFC Emil Praslick, III is a patriot and a supreme example of a man. No back up. No back down. HE IS THE MEANING OF ARMY STRONG.

Sir, thank you for your service.

Semper fi,
Jim Hardy

USMC Reserve
VMF-351, Naval Air Station, Atlanta
1969-1975

Member, United States Long Range Development Team in support of the 2011 Palma Team to Australia