Paratus Forty-Six

10/19/2026

On this day in 1781, Lord Cornwallis surrenders to American and French allied forces at Yorktown, leading to the end of major combat in the American War for Independence. Cornwallis dispatched his 2IC to surrender his sword, citing illness. O'Hara attempted to surrender the sword to Rochambeaux, who directed him to Washington. Washington refused the gesture, insisting that O'Hara instead present the sword to his own 2IC, MG Benjamin Lincoln.

Fighting would continue for months, especially in wilderness areas. Parliament wouldn't vote to cease hostilities until the spring of 82. Evacuation Day in 1783 would mark the departure of the last of British troops from New York.

Cornwallis's surrender took place just up the road from the field in the photo below. The field is where British troops surrendered their arms & equipment.

10/19/2026

I had a fantastic time at the 30th anniversary party for Direct Action Resource Center yesterday, brief though the visit was. It was incredible getting to see so many familiar faces, many of whom I hadn't seen in a few years. From role players to ID guys; we've unfortunately passed each other on the sched and it was great seeing you all again. I'm sorry if we didn't connect for more than a passing handshake, bro hug, or simple wave across the room. Just know that I relished the reconnect.

I had the opportunity to make new acquaintances, as well. From families of friends (including a wee lad who insisted on showing me around the venue by the finger) to a new business contact, they were all well met. Arkansas State Police showed amazing hospitality in their new facility. Props to your decorating committee, ASP: chef's kiss. Seriously. The digs are

Rich, thank you for the trust, mentorship, and friendship. It means the world. I'll keep trying not to make you feel like my Dad. Here's to continued chances. Congratulations on 30 years, and may you enjoy many more.

10/18/2026

Everyone needs to shut up and color now and again.

10/17/2026

Happy 30th DARC

10/16/2026

AITA?

If you promote your class with a corny, overdone AI-generated graphic, I'm immediately not interested. Anybody else?

10/12/2026

Coppers, we need a bigger Okie contingent for Border Wars 2027. I think I did a fair job representing us this weekend but the more, the merrier. RangeTec is a fantastic facility owned by some great dudes. They have everything from movers to a baller Rogers Range. My man Allen N. put on a great match. There were guys there from OK, MO, KS, IA, & IL, and the prize table was very well stocked. Let's make a run at that traveling trophy next year. Big thanks to my partner from MO State Police for his performance. I'm already looking forward to next year. Wagons north, boys!

10/10/2026

Border Wars 2026 is about to go down.

10/09/2026

Suppressors, SBRs, SBSes, and AOWs by 4473. It's a start.

10/09/2026

Happy Dead Che Day.

Hat tip DARC for the pic those many DCDs ago.

10/05/2026

If you're paying your own way for the Nov courses, there are still multiple ways to pay. Email [email protected] for details. Make your subject line "Alternative payment".

Multiple ways to pay.

If you're an Individual Officer paying out of pocket for one of our courses, you can alternatively pay your tuition in pre '65 silver coin or GoldBacks.

Shoot us a message and we'll walk you through it. There are several GB brokers in Oklahoma who can handle those transactions, and we're a registered GB Merchant; one of the first in the state.

Students paying with either method will receive a small discount in their tuition cost, relative to their respective conversions.