#groundwork contractors

[vivconstructgroup]

Why Proper Groundwork Assures Construction Success?

Groundwork is very important for any construction project. It is the first step that helps build a strong foundation. Without proper groundwork, buildings can face many problems. This article will explain why proper groundwork is necessary.

What is Groundwork?

Groundwork is the preparation of land before building. It includes several tasks:

Clearing the land

Digging trenches

Leveling the ground

Checking soil quality

These tasks are important. They ensure the site is ready for construction. Proper groundwork helps build safe and strong buildings.

Why is Proper Groundwork Important?

There are many reasons why proper groundwork is essential.

1. Safety First

Safety is the top priority in construction. Proper groundwork helps prevent accidents. If the ground is not stable, structures can collapse. This can harm workers and residents.

2. Strong Foundation

A strong foundation is key to any building. The foundation supports the entire structure. Proper groundwork ensures the foundation is solid. It helps the building stand tall for many years.

3. Prevents Water Problems

Groundwork helps manage water flow. Good drainage keeps water away from the foundation. Excess water can weaken the foundation. It may also cause flooding. Proper groundwork prevents these issues.

4. Reduces Costs

Proper groundwork can save money. If groundwork is not done well, problems arise later. Fixing these problems can be expensive. By doing the groundwork correctly, costs can be kept low.

5. Increases Property Value

A building with a strong foundation is more valuable. Proper groundwork helps maintain the building's value. Buyers look for well-constructed buildings. They want to invest in safe properties.

Credit: www.greyrocklandscape.com

Steps in Proper Groundwork

Proper groundwork involves several steps. Each step is important for a successful project.

1. Site Surveying

The first step is surveying the land. Surveyors check the land's features. They look for slopes, trees, and rocks. This helps in planning the construction.

2. Land Clearing

After surveying, the land must be cleared. This means removing trees, bushes, and debris. A clear site is essential for safe construction.

3. Soil Testing

Next, soil testing is done. This checks the soil's strength and type. Different soils can support different weights. Knowing the soil type helps in designing the foundation.

4. Ground Leveling

Leveling the ground is the next step. The land must be flat and even. This helps in building a stable foundation. Uneven ground can lead to problems later.

5. Excavation

Excavation is digging the trenches for the foundation. This step must be done carefully. The trenches need to be the right depth and width. It is important for the foundation's strength.

6. Compaction

Compaction is the process of packing the soil. This makes the ground denser and stronger. A strong base is important for a solid foundation.

Credit: countypiling.co.uk

Common Groundwork Mistakes

Even small mistakes in groundwork can cause big problems. Here are some common errors to avoid:

Not checking the soil type

Ignoring drainage needs

Skipping leveling

Rushing the excavation

Each mistake can lead to safety risks and costly repairs. It is important to take time during groundwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is Groundwork Important Before Starting Construction?

Proper groundwork ensures a stable foundation. This helps prevent future issues like cracks and sinking.

What Are The Risks Of Poor Groundwork?

Poor groundwork can lead to structural damage, safety hazards, and increased repair costs.

How Does Weather Affect Groundwork?

Weather can impact soil quality. Rain or freeze can weaken the ground, making it less stable.

What Materials Are Used In Proper Groundwork?

Common materials include gravel, sand, and concrete. These provide strength and stability for the foundation.

Conclusion

Proper groundwork is essential for any construction project. It ensures safety, strength, and long-term success. By following the right steps, builders can avoid problems. Groundwork is the foundation of a strong building.

In summary, remember the key points:

Groundwork ensures safety and prevents accidents.

A strong foundation supports the entire structure.

Proper drainage keeps water away from the building.

Good groundwork can reduce costs.

Well-constructed buildings have higher property values.

In the end, take groundwork seriously. It is a critical first step in construction. A strong and safe building starts from proper groundwork.

[hybconstructionltd]

Build a Strong Foundation with Expert Groundwork Contractors

At HYB Construction Ltd., our experienced groundwork contractors emphasise commitment to accuracy and excellence. We are your reliable partner for professional construction solutions. We serve Surbiton, England.

[henryleo82001]

Best Groundwork Contractors in Daventry

Are you looking for the best Groundwork Contractors in Daventry? Then contact Crystal green property services ltd. They handle the entire process with professionalism and care, ensuring high-quality results that exceed expectations. Visit them for more info.

[dhallplant]

A Guide to Maintaining Your Groundworks Drainage Systems in Cornwall

Effective drainage is essential for any groundworks project, especially in Cornwall where the unique climate and soil conditions can present particular challenges. Proper maintenance of drainage systems ensures their longevity and efficiency, preventing costly repairs and protecting your property from water damage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to maintaining your groundworks drainage systems in Cornwall.

Why Maintenance is Crucial

Cornwall’s weather is known for its heavy rainfall and damp conditions, which can put a strain on drainage systems. Regular maintenance helps to:

Prevent Blockages: Debris such as leaves, soil, and silt can accumulate in drainage pipes, leading to blockages that cause water to back up.

Avoid Flooding: Blocked or damaged drainage systems can result in flooding, which can damage property and infrastructure.

Extend System Lifespan: Regular checks and maintenance can extend the life of your drainage system, ensuring it functions efficiently for years.

Key Maintenance Tips for Drainage Systems

Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections to check for any signs of damage or blockages. Look for standing water, slow drainage, or unusual smells which may indicate a problem.

Clear Debris: Remove any debris from the drainage grates, gutters, and pipes. This includes leaves, twigs, and other organic material that can cause blockages.

Check for Damage: Inspect pipes and drainage channels for any cracks, holes, or other signs of wear and tear. Addressing these issues early can prevent more significant problems later.

Clean Drainage Pipes: Use a hose or pressure washer to clean out drainage pipes. This helps to remove any built-up silt or dirt that could lead to blockages.

Maintain Surrounding Landscape: Ensure that the landscape around your drainage system is well-maintained. Overgrown plants and roots can interfere with drainage pipes, causing damage and blockages.

Professional Drainage Service in Cornwall: Consider hiring a professional drainage service in Cornwall to perform thorough inspections and maintenance. Professionals have the tools and expertise to identify and fix issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye.

Note: This article is originally published at DHall Plant Hire & Groundworks contractors.

[franchisesales]

Details Presentation WJB Ground Works Ltd

WJB Ground Works Ltd has built their reputation on delivering high quality results, by providing clients with an amazing outcome while keeping the focus on performing great customer service every step of the way.

22 Chichele Road,Cricklewood,London,NW2 3DA

info@wjbgroundworks.com

020 3754 1809

[terramaxltd]

TerraMax: Your Premier Choice for Landscaping Services, Groundworks, and Hardscaping

A well-designed outdoor space is more than just an aesthetic enhancement; it's an extension of your lifestyle. Whether you envision a tranquil garden retreat, a vibrant entertainment area, or a functional outdoor kitchen, TerraMax is the team to make it happen.

Crafting stunning outdoor environments is our specialty at TerraMax. We're not just a landscaping service; we're a team of passionate experts dedicated to bringing your outdoor vision to life. Here's what sets us apart:

Landscaping Services: We understand that each landscape is unique. Our designers work closely with you to create bespoke plans that reflect your personal style and needs, whether it's a serene water feature or a lush flower bed.

Groundworks Contractor: A solid foundation is essential for any outdoor project. Our skilled groundworks team ensures proper grading, drainage, and soil preparation, setting the stage for a thriving landscape.

Hardscaping Services: From elegant patios and walkways to durable retaining walls and outdoor structures, our hardscaping solutions add form, function, and lasting value to your property.

Our Commitment: Quality and Customer Satisfaction

At TerraMax, we believe in doing things right the first time. We use only high-quality materials, employ skilled craftsmen, and adhere to strict project management standards. Our ultimate goal is your complete satisfaction.

Transform Your Outdoor Space Today

Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your outdoor space? Contact TerraMax today. Our team will guide you through every step, from initial consultation and design to construction and final touches. Let's create an outdoor masterpiece that you'll enjoy for years to come.

[dtgroundworks]

Commercial Groundworks & Excavation Contractors Wakefield   

Our commercial excavation & groundworks contractors in Wakefield cover drainage systems, bespoke driveways, and equestrian works of any size. Call today.

[lowcostgroundwork]

Transforming Spaces: Groundwork Contractors UK 

Discover the expertise of Groundwork Contractors UK at Low Cost Groundwork. Our seasoned professionals specialize in comprehensive groundwork solutions across the UK. From excavation to landscaping, drainage to foundation work, we deliver top-notch services at affordable rates. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, trust us to lay the groundwork for your project's success. Visit Low Cost Groundwork today to learn more and kickstart your construction journey with confidence.

[gkconcrete]

With ready-mixed concrete, consistency and quality are guaranteed, ensuring optimal performance and structural integrity. It allows for precise control over proportions, resulting in a reliable and uniform mix every time. gkconcrete offer a wide range of concrete mixes, tailored to suit various applications, from foundations and slabs to driveways and structural elements.

[cleighwrites]

Work Buddies

SPN Fanfic

Characters - Jensen x Jared

Summary - Jared and Jensen work for Kripke Enterprises which has a strict “No Dating” policy. Will they make it through an upcoming presentation without causing an HR nightmare?

Word Count - 2,636

A/N - This is an early birthday gift for @buffywoo!! Hope you feel better soon, babe! Prompted and beta’d by @jld71, thanks again!!

***In other news, this is my 601st post!! WILD!***

Warning - NSFW, shameless flirting, anal (fingering and sex), top!Jared, power bottom!Jensen

Read it on Ao3

Kripke Enterprises was notorious for its severely strict “No Dating” policy. It was all well and good as far as Jared was concerned. He’d broken up with his girlfriend before moving and he was hardly ready to jump back onto that particular horse. That was until he was paired with someone from advertising for a new project. 

Jensen Ackles was the epitome of gorgeous. He had a jawline that could cut glass, perfectly decorated with just the right amount of facial hair. His cheekbones were high, eyebrows expressive, and eyes as bright as emeralds. His hair was perfectly styled and his legs adorably bowed. Jared hardly knew where to look while they were introducing themselves. 

Jim, not Mr. Beaver, insisted they work together over the course of the following weeks to come up with the perfect presentation to show to Mr. Kripke for a new apartment complex on the other side of town. Jared being a contractor, and Jensen being in advertising, had to make the plans and concepts both appealing and economical for the company and any future tenants. 

Jensen’s smile disarmed Jared’s brain every time he laughed at some offhand comment Jared made. Jared had always been told he had a particular sense of humor that not all people appreciated. Jensen’s mind seemed just as dirty as his, as he’d chuckled or outright laughed whenever Jared made a lewd observation, which was often. 

It turned out that they had a lot in common. In addition to being Cowboys fans, they both had parents who were still married and a younger sister and older brother. They’d both grown up in Texas and followed their passions to get to where they were at Kripke Enterprises. 

They grew close over the weeks. Jared caught himself on more than one occasion staring as Jensen chewed on his pen while he thought, wondering what it would feel like to have those plush lips around his cock. He’d shake his head, laugh at himself, and then shrug when Jensen would raise a brow at him. 

When their presentation was finished, Jared decided to make a move. 

“Let’s grab a drink tonight,” he suggested to Jensen as they packed their bags to go home. 

“Yeah, alright,” Jensen agreed. 

Jared felt what he’d only ever heard described as butterflies in his stomach. He’d known Jensen would say yes, but that just meant he had to go through with his half-baked plan of getting Jensen into his bed. Step one was drinks. 

“Where’d you have in mind?” Jensen asked once they were outside. 

“How about Sagebrush?” Jared proposed. 

“They have live music there, right?” 

“Yeah, but I don’t know about tonight,” Jared admitted. 

“That’s cool, I’m up for anything,” Jensen said with a dazzling smile.

“Anything?” Jared asked, voice dripping in innuendo. 

Jensen cackled. Head thrown back, lean neck on display, just asking for Jared’s teeth to sink into. “You know me, man. I’m always down for a good time.” 

Okay, step two was drinks, step one was laying the groundwork. 

Step two was well underway, they were on their third round of Scotches when Jensen leaned over and tapped Jared on the arm. He leaned even closer and brushed his lips over Jared’s ear as he whispered. Jared broke out in goosebumps. 

He pointed to a couple that was dancing a few feet away. “What do you bet they’re gonna go fuck in the bathroom before the next set?”

“I’d take that bet. They’re halfway there already!” Jared responded. 

Jensen laughed and Jared’s gut pulled at the sight. He’d seen Jensen laugh before, tons of times over the weeks, but there was something freer about Jensen after a few drinks. He was looser and less… controlled. 

“Hey,” Jared said, following Jensen’s lead and leaning in close to speak into Jensen’s ear. “You wanna get outta here?” 

Jared leaned back to get a read on Jensen’s reaction. Jensen looked him right in the eyes, calculating. Jared was sure he’d said too much too soon until Jensen grew a shy smile. 

“Yeah, sure.” 

“Yeah?” Jared asked, hopeful. 

“Yeah. This place is kinda loud, anyway.”

“Yeah,” Jared said, downing the rest of his drink and standing. 

They both grabbed their suit jackets and bags and then left. Once the door shut behind them, Jensen turned to Jared and then stepped up to him. Not sure what was happening, Jared took a step back and Jensen followed. After a couple of steps, Jared’s back hit the wall. Jared laughed, but Jensen was all business as he pressed in on Jared and planted a kiss on his lips. 

Jared was stunned at first, but very quickly got on board with the turn of events. He grabbed Jensen’s hips and pulled him in close. Jensen’s hands were around Jared’s face and his fingers ran through the longer strands at the back of his head. 

Jensen pulled away far enough for them to catch their breaths, but kept their foreheads pressed together. “God, I’ve wanted to do that for the longest time,” Jensen admitted, breath ghosting over Jared’s mouth. 

“Same,” Jared said, leaning back in for another kiss. 

Jensen kissed him quickly, then pulled away and held his hand out to help Jared off the wall. “Your place or mine?” he asked, a wicked grin on his face. 

“Do you have lube?” Jared asked.

Jensen shot him a look that answered the question for him. 

“Who’s closest?”

After revealing their addresses and figuring out whose place was the quickest to get to, they took off in the direction of Jensen’s apartment. It was only a few blocks, so they hoofed it, hand in hand, glancing at each other and smiling the entire way.  

At the door to Jensen’s apartment building, Jared pressed himself against Jensen’s back, grinding his erection into Jensen’s ass. Jensen pressed back and groaned as he had to try his key for a second time to open the door. 

Jared took his grousing as impatience and nibbled on his ear lobe, ya know, to aid the situation. 

Jensen leaned into the attention, then grumbled, “You’re not helping.”

After his third attempt, Jensen opened his door and Jared wasted no time getting them into a more private space. Once the door shut behind them, Jared had Jensen pressed against it and their mouths sealed together. 

Their hands crawled under each other’s shirts and Jared finally got to feel Jensen’s bare skin under his fingers. Jensen was warm and solid yet pliant under his touch. When Jared couldn’t take it anymore, he moved away from Jensen’s mouth and worked his way down to his throat. Jared could feel the reverberation from Jensen’s groan through his lips. 

“I’ve been waiting for this,” Jensen said.

“Patience is a virtue,” Jared responded against Jensen’s pulse. 

“Fuck you.” 

“No, fuck you,” Jared corrected. 

Jensen moaned again and gripped Jared’s shoulders. “Fuck me.” 

“That’s the plan,” Jared said, pulling back and looking Jensen in the eyes. “Right?”

“Yes,” he confirmed. “Please,” he added leaning in for another kiss. 

Jared knew he’d give Jensen anything and everything he’d ever ask for. How could he deny him anything? Especially when he asked so prettily. 

“Bedroom?” Jared asked. 

Jensen nodded then shoved his shoulders away from the door. “Right this way,” he said with his arm out like he was about to give Jared a tour. 

Jared followed, pressed against Jensen’s back and pressing kisses along his neck and shoulders. When Jensen walked them into his room, he flipped on the light and turned in Jared’s grasp. They kissed again, only breaking apart to remove each other’s shirts and kick their pants and shoes off. 

Down to their boxer briefs, Jensen led them to his bed. He kissed Jared until he backed up and sat on the edge of the bed, then he pulled away and dug through his nightstand drawer. He grumbled to himself a moment then said “Aha!” and pulled out a bottle of lube and a condom. His smile was blinding and Jared couldn’t help but respond with one of his own. 

Jensen kissed him again, this time slipping himself between Jared’s legs and gently leaning him back against the mattress. Jared went willingly, holding Jensen in his arms to bring him down on top of him. Without their slacks in the way, their cocks drug against each other, wet spots on their briefs getting them sticky with precome. 

Jared was drunk on the little noises Jensen made, the quiet grunts and soft moans when their cocks would slide together just right. He wanted to live in this moment forever, but there were literally more pressing issues that required immediate attention. 

Deciding that it was time to move things along, Jared rolled over toward the head of the bed, landing Jensen on top of his pillows. Jensen chuckled and rearranged the pillows and himself while Jared grabbed the lube and condom and worked his briefs off. He grabbed the waistband of Jensen’s briefs next and moved them slowly down his hips, careful not to get them hung on Jensen’s impressive dick. 

Beautifully bare to him, Jensen lay there, looking at Jared while Jared did the same. He was just as attractive naked as he was clothed. They were both cut, and Jensen’s perfectly dark pink tip dribbled precome onto his belly. Unable to control himself, Jared reached forward and grabbed hold of Jensen’s cock, giving it a few slow strokes. 

“Oh, God!” Jensen groaned out, shoving his head back into a pillow. 

Jared smiled, he loved seeing Jensen come apart and being the one to bring him there. Jensen whimpered when Jared let go so he could start prepping him. As soon as he heard the snip of the lube bottle opening, Jensen raised his legs and held himself spread out for Jared to be able to get to him easily. Of course, Jensen was well groomed everywhere, he was a sight to behold. 

After a moment of appreciation, Jared coated a few fingers with lube and set to work. Jensen was tight but relaxed enough that Jared had no issue stretching him open quickly. While Jared worked his fingers in and out of Jensen’s tight hole, he took Jensen’s cock into his mouth and got his first taste of him. He was addicted already. Jensen fit perfectly into Jared’s mouth, all the way to the back of his throat. 

Jensen moaned and groaned and grunted his way through being prepped. Jared could live in this moment for the rest of his life. Knuckle deep into and choking on Jensen. If he’d had hair, Jared would be burying his nose into it, as it was, Jared’s nose was rubbing deliciously against Jensen’s slick, bare skin. 

Once Jared could easily shove three fingers into Jensen, he considered him prepped. As quickly as he could, he slurped his way off Jensen’s cock, rolled the condom on and slicked himself up. While Jared was busy, Jensen rearranged himself on the bed, settling more toward the middle. Jared kissed his way up Jensen’s legs, torso, and neck until he finally got to his mouth. As they kissed, Jared used one hand to line himself up and the other to hold himself over Jensen. 

Jared thrust in slowly, giving Jensen ample time to adjust to the intrusion. He was squeezing around Jared so tightly that Jared was afraid of hurting him if he moved too fast. Jared kept his eyes on Jensen’s flushed face as he thrust in, prepared to stop at the first sign of distress. 

He couldn’t get over how gorgeous Jensen was. Long lashes fluttered while Jensen kept his eyes squeezed shut. His perfectly plush lips formed a sensuous “O” whenever he breathed out. His skin was flushed a delicious pink that made the spackling of freckles across his face stand out. 

All too soon, Jared bottomed out and Jensen’s eyes fluttered open. He made eye contact with Jared and his flush deepened. His eyes shone like a perfectly polished moss agate; Jared couldn’t look away if he wanted to. 

“You can move now,” Jensen told him, voice rough and attractively ragged.  

Jared’s cock twitched at the sound and Jensen clenched back. They both groaned at the sensation. Jared did as he was told and pulled out, not quite as slowly as he’d entered, but still unsure of hurting Jensen. He was quite aware of how endowed he was and had bad experiences in the past. Once he was pulled out to the head, Jared pushed back in a bit faster. 

“I can take it, I won’t break, promise,” Jensen said breathily. 

“If you’re sure,” Jared said, increasing his pace. 

Jensen smacked his ass and pulled his hips forward to drive his cock in deeper, then ground his hips against Jared’s pelvis. So, Jensen was a power bottom, noted. Jared took his cue and started to fuck Jensen in earnest. If he wanted it, Jared would give it to him. 

After a few minutes, they were both sweating and breathing heavily. Jensen was taking him beautifully and Jared couldn’t think of ever having had a better partner. He gave as good as he got, and Jared had a lot to give. 

Two position changes later, Jensen was practically singing as he moaned with every thrust. Jared reached around and started tugging at Jensen’s cock. With a few well-aimed thrusts, Jensen was coming all over his bedspread. His entire body went rigid with it and Jared was being squeezed like a vice. After a few more thrusts into Jensen’s tight channel, Jared was pumping his release into the condom. 

Jensen collapsed onto the bed, to the side of his mess, and Jared followed suit, landing behind him with his cock still lodged in his ass. They lay there and breathed for a moment and then Jared held the end of the condom and slipped himself out. Jensen let out a breath once Jared was out and shuddered at the loss. Jared tied off the condom and paused for a moment. 

“Trashcan’s on the other side of the nightstand,” Jensen supplied. 

“‘Kay,” Jared said, leaning over the side of the bed and tossing the filled condom into the trash. 

Jared wasn’t sure what he should do next. Was Jensen a cuddler? Would he stay the night? Would they eat something before bed? Jared sure had worked up an appetite. 

“Getting cold over here,” Jensen said, reaching a hand out for Jared. 

Jared followed his lead and laid back down behind Jensen, curling around him and holding him close. Jensen exhaled a deep breath and settled into Jared’s embrace. 

“We’re going to have to go to HR on Monday,” Jensen said after a while.

Jared started. “What, why?” 

“Because I’m gonna wanna do this again and we both know how Kripke is about his dating policy. We’re never going to be able to work together again.” Jensen chuckled to himself. 

Jared kissed Jensen’s neck. “I could definitely do this again.”

Jensen playfully elbowed him in the ribs. “I didn’t mean right now!” 

Jared kept kissing Jensen’s neck. “But I’m hungry…” 

“Then we should eat something,” Jensen said, laughing. 

“I could eat you.”

“Maybe later.” Jensen rolled over to face Jared, a serious look on his face. “Pizza or tacos?”

Jared didn’t even think about it. “Tacos.”

“A man after my own heart.” 

They both smiled at each other until Jensen climbed down to the foot of the bed to grab his phone out of his pants. Jared laid back and enjoyed the view as Jensen lay on his stomach and placed an order on his phone. Chuckling to himself, he thought about the nightmare this would be for HR and had to admit to himself that he didn’t care. It would be worth it to be with Jensen. 

[deadpresidents]

Could you recommend any books like Black Hawk Down about military battles that are real detailed and feel like novels like Black Hawk Down did?

That's a pretty high bar that you're setting! Mark Bowden's Black Hawk Down (BOOK | KINDLE) is one of the best books of that genre of the last few decades.

Obviously, there are tons of great books about military conflicts and specific battles, but I think I understand what you're looking for. Instead of the more history-focused studies, you are thinking of something vivid that feels like the author was embedded with the troops, right? Here are a few that come to mind: 13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happened in Benghazi by Mitchell Zuckoff and the Annex Security Team (BOOK | KINDLE | AUDIO) I'm a fan of many of Mitchell Zuckoff's books. He's a great writer and his books usually end up being really exciting and impossible to put down. I wasn't all that hyped to read about what happened in Benghazi because it was such a tragedy and dark moment in the Obama Administration, but Zuckoff (with the help of the surviving team of CIA contractors and special operators who were involved in that battle) wrote an incredible book. It's obvious why they quickly made this book into a film. It's one of those books that you basically have to read in one sitting because it's such an intense experience.

Horse Soldiers: The Extraordinary Story of a Band of U.S. Soldiers Who Rode to Victory in Afghanistan by Doug Stanton (BOOK | KINDLE | AUDIO) Another book that was turned into a film (12 Strong), this is the story of the small teams of special operators and CIA paramilitary officers who went into Afghanistan just a few weeks after 9/11. The teams -- usually of less than a dozen men -- met up with Afghan tribal leaders who had been fighting against the Taliban for years, and started what would eventually become the War on Terror. They were in such remote, hard-to-navigate terrain that they ended up riding into battle with their Afghan warlord allies on HORSES.

First Casualty: The Untold Story of the CIA Mission to Avenge 9/11 by Toby Harnden (BOOK | KINDLE | AUDIO) Harnden's book is also focused on those small CIA teams that were covertly inserted into Afghanistan immediately after 9/11 and laid the groundwork for the eventual U.S. invasion, with a particular focus on the first American casualty in the War on Terror, Mike Spann, a CIA agent killed during an uprising by prisoners (including American Taliban John Walker Lindh).

The Last Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of Little Bighorn by Nathaniel Philbrick (BOOK | KINDLE | AUDIO) Nat Philbrick's books are always vivid and feel like novels. They also feel like they were written by someone who witnessed everything being written about, even if they happened 150 years earlier. The Last Stand is a familiar story, but written with fresh eyes and extensive research, and I think the result is a different experience of something you may feel like you already know everything about. Here's my original review of the book from 2011.

[hybconstructionltd]

Solid Foundations, Seamless Results: Your Groundworks Company

Build with confidence – Choose our expert Groundworks Company. From excavation to site preparation, we lay the groundwork for your success. Explore our comprehensive services today. We serving in Surbiton, England.

[michael-turley]

Engineering Resilience: The Role of Army Engineers in Modern Peacekeeping

Army engineers have long been a vital component of military operations, with their skills and expertise essential to ensuring the success of both combat and peacekeeping missions. As modern warfare evolves and peacekeeping efforts become more complex, the role of Army engineers in fostering resilience in conflict zones has become increasingly important. These engineers support military objectives and play a pivotal role in rebuilding war-torn communities, providing humanitarian aid, and establishing the infrastructure necessary for long-term peace and stability.

The Evolving Role of Army Engineers in Peacekeeping

In the past, Army engineers were primarily known for their combat engineering work, including fortifying defensive positions, constructing bridges, and clearing obstacles. However, the nature of modern military engagements has shifted, with peacekeeping operations now accounting for a significant portion of Army engineering efforts. These operations often occur in volatile environments where maintaining security, restoring essential services, and promoting stability are critical to peace.

Army engineers in peacekeeping missions often support infrastructure, from rebuilding transportation networks to establishing essential utilities like water and electricity. Their work directly impacts the lives of civilians recovering from the aftermath of war or political upheaval. By addressing immediate needs and laying the groundwork for long-term development, Army engineers contribute to the overall success of peacekeeping missions.

Key Areas of Contribution: Infrastructure and Reconstruction

One of the most significant contributions of Army engineers in peacekeeping operations is their role in infrastructure and reconstruction. After conflicts, many countries face widespread damage to their infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and power grids. Army engineers possess the technical knowledge and equipment needed to repair and rebuild these critical systems, helping to restore normalcy to affected communities.

In many cases, Army engineers work alongside civilian contractors and local authorities to rebuild vital infrastructure. They bring expertise in structural engineering, construction management, and logistics, essential for completing large-scale projects in challenging environments. The engineers' ability to design, build, and maintain infrastructure in post-conflict areas makes them a key component in stabilizing regions and promoting economic recovery.

Beyond physical reconstruction, Army engineers also assist in providing humanitarian aid. This can include setting up temporary shelters, providing clean drinking water, or facilitating the delivery of medical supplies. The resilience of communities in post-conflict zones depends on reconstructing physical infrastructure and restoring essential services that support daily life.

Civil-Military Cooperation: Building Trust with Local Populations

A crucial aspect of peacekeeping is the need for Army engineers to work closely with local populations, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This civil-military cooperation is essential for building trust and fostering positive relationships with the communities they are helping to rebuild. Engineers often serve as a bridge between military forces and civilians, offering a more tangible and less confrontational presence in areas of unrest.

Through collaborative efforts, Army engineers assist in developing public infrastructure projects that benefit both military and civilian populations. These projects include rebuilding schools, health clinics, and public buildings, which can create a sense of stability and progress. The visible contributions of Army engineers, such as providing access to clean water and electricity, help generate goodwill and promote a sense of security in regions that have endured conflict.

Moreover, Army engineers often train local workers and transfer knowledge and skills to local communities. This ensures that reconstruction efforts are sustainable and that local populations are empowered to maintain and improve the infrastructure once the peacekeeping mission concludes.

Engineering Resilience in the Face of Disaster

Another vital role of Army engineers in modern peacekeeping is their ability to respond to natural disasters and other emergencies that often arise in conflict zones. These events can complicate peacekeeping operations, as they exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and pose new challenges to the safety and stability of the region. Army engineers are trained to respond quickly and effectively to such emergencies, providing immediate relief and ensuring that disaster recovery efforts are integrated into broader peacekeeping objectives.

For example, Army engineers are often called upon to build temporary shelters for displaced populations following natural disasters or to assist in clearing debris and restoring access to critical infrastructure. Their logistics, construction, and resource management expertise allows them to operate efficiently in high-pressure situations, ensuring that affected communities receive the support they need.

In some cases, Army engineers are also involved in designing and implementing long-term disaster risk reduction measures. These can include reinforcing buildings to withstand earthquakes, constructing flood barriers, or developing early warning systems for natural hazards. By enhancing the resilience of communities to future disasters, Army engineers contribute to the overall stability and security of the region.

The Role of Technology in Modern Peacekeeping

Army engineers increasingly rely on cutting-edge tools and equipment as technology advances for peacekeeping missions. Drones, advanced surveying equipment, and 3D printing are just a few technologies that have revolutionized how Army engineers operate.

Drones, for instance, are used for surveillance, mapping, and surveying damaged areas, allowing engineers to gather valuable information before undertaking large-scale reconstruction projects. This technology enables engineers to assess damage more accurately and develop targeted solutions to repair infrastructure. Additionally, drones can deliver supplies to hard-to-reach areas, providing immediate aid to needy populations.

3D printing has also emerged as a powerful tool in military engineering. Engineers can use 3D printers to quickly create parts and components needed for reconstruction, reducing the time and cost of traditional manufacturing processes. This technology allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in the field, ensuring that engineers can address urgent needs.

The integration of these technologies into peacekeeping efforts has enhanced the ability of Army engineers to respond to crises and contribute to the rebuilding process in a more effective and timely manner.

A Lasting Impact on Peace and Stability

The role of Army engineers in modern peacekeeping is multifaceted and essential to ensuring long-term peace and stability in conflict zones. From infrastructure reconstruction to disaster response, these engineers provide critical support that helps restore order and rebuild communities. Army engineers promote sustainable peace and development by fostering civil-military cooperation, enhancing resilience, and utilizing advanced technologies.

As peacekeeping operations continue to evolve in complexity, the skills and expertise of Army engineers will remain indispensable. Their work ensures that the immediate needs of affected populations are met and lays the foundation for a more stable and resilient future. Through their contributions, Army engineers help create the conditions necessary for lasting peace and recovery in regions torn apart by conflict.

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Christopher Matias at HuffPost:

MONROEVILLE, Pa. — JD Vance spoke at a festival of election denialism in a Pittsburgh suburb Saturday, lending the imprimatur of his position as the Republican nominee for vice president to a gathering of people who still falsely believe the 2020 presidential election was stolen from former President Donald Trump and who might be laying the groundwork to make the same bogus claim next month if Trump and Vance lose in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state.

Vance participated in an hour-long town hall at one of the final stops of the “Courage” tour, a neo-Charismatic Christian revival roadshow organized by Lance Wallnau, a Texas-based evangelical pastor and self-described “apostle” who claims to be able to speak with God, who told him Trump is prophesied to be the 47th president of the U.S. If Wallnau’s name sounds familiar, it might be because he played a major role in fomenting disinformation about the last presidential election and was even set to speak at the Jan. 6, 2021, election denial rally in Washington that became the violent insurrection. As Vance spoke from the stage at Wallnau’s event Saturday to a few hundred mostly middle-aged and octogenarian white people, a familiar cast of election-denying organizations operated booths on the other side of the convention hall, encouraging people to join their mailing list or offering them candy. Their presence here demonstrated the ways Wallnau’s brand of extreme Christian nationalism dovetails with election denial. After all, of what import are actually fair elections here on Earth if a candidate is predestined or prophesied from above to take office?

Manning one of the booths was Toni Shuppe, who said she would only speak to HuffPost on the condition that she got to write and edit this article with the reporter, allowing it to publish with her go-ahead. (HuffPost did not agree to those conditions, which Shuppe said she developed after a wave of negative media coverage over the last few years led her to receive threats.) [...] Still, Shuppe was welcomed this weekend at the “Courage” tour stop in Monroeville, standing among a bevy of other MAGA organizations devoted to “election integrity.” This included Turning Point USA, the far-right youth group founded over a decade ago now by 30-year-old Charlie Kirk, which has turned into a fundraising juggernaut in the MAGA universe and put a ton of money in Kirk’s pockets too, allowing him to buy a $5 million mansion in an Arizona country club, even as he’s grown increasingly racist and antisemitic on his eponymous podcast, one of the most listened to in America.

Kirk used his massive platform in 2020 to become one of the biggest propagandists for the false claim that mail-in voting across the country was awash in fraud. And on Jan. 6, 2021, Kirk organized buses to take Trump supporters to the rally in Washington, writing on X, formerly called Twitter, that the event “would likely be one of the largest and most consequential in American history.” (Kirk deleted the post after Trump supporters at the rally stormed the Capitol.) Earlier this year, the attorney general in Arizona indicted two Turning Points USA officials, Chief Operating Officer Tyler Bowyer and state Sen. Jake Hoffman (a contractor for the group), for being among the 11 “fake electors” in the state — part of a nationwide effort by the Trump campaign to send “alternate” electors to Congress who would declare Trump the winner in states he’d lost, handing him another term.

[...] A booth over was the America First Policy Institute, a MAGA think tank whose lawyers are currently representing a Republican Georgia election official — with a long history of election denialism — in her lawsuit that’s asking for the discretion to refuse to certify election results.

[...] And finally among the booths at the “Courage” tour stop was Joshua Standifer, founder of a group called Lion of Judah, which is devoted to signing up Christian Trump supporters (and by default election skeptics) as poll workers across the country before next month’s election. The group’s website describes this mission as a “Trojan horse” strategy to get Christians in “key positions of influence in government like Election Workers, which will help them spot incidents of fraud, and taking “the first step on the path to victory this Fall,” according to The Guardian.

This weekend, Trump VP nominee JD Vance took a campaign stop to Seven Mountains Dominionism promoter Lance Wallnau’s Courage Tour that features Christian Nationalism and election denialism.