A Significant Milestone Achieved - Sincere Gratitude to the Readers of the Arnhem Jim Blog

I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the readers of the Arnhem Jim blog, both long-term established and new alike. In March of 2011 my oldest son suggested that I initiate a blog page in order to convey some of my interests in military history, unique personal experiences, and, most importantly as a way of keeping the dendrites actively engaged. The results, given the nature of the subject matter presented, were not anticipated.

My objectives were to keep the content as apolitical and non-controversial as possible (single exception being the planning/execution of Operation Market Garden), to operate on a completely non-profit basis (since recently modified due to need to assist older family member), fully acknowledge information/imagery sources, and to try and present extremely esoteric subject matter in an interesting, reasonably professional multi-media format. Obviously, all within the limited confines of my own technical knowledge and capabilities, albeit my skill sets have increased (another personal benefit).

The blog recently has achieved a significant goal, that being over a half a million hits in a six-year span, but even more importantly that interest has come from all 50 of the United States of America, and 192 (now up to 195) other nations and autonomous governing entities, all over the world. Although not a totally coincident set, it is curious to note that there are 193 member states currently seated in the United Nations. It is generally accepted that there are 196 acknowledged nations in the world. It has proven to be a major geography lesson.

As has been previously mentioned in other pages of this blog I am particularly appreciative of the 66 readers who have taken the time and effort to officially register as “Followers” of the blog. Although it has become increasing challenging to develop subject matter for new articles, I will strive to maintain material of continuing unique character and interest to the reader. Anyone who would like more information on a given subject, or even a totally new subject, please don't hesitate to leave a note in the "Comments" window of any page. Once again, my most gracious and sincere thanks to all of you.

Slàinte Mhòr! Slàinte! (Gaelic for Great good health! Health! A traditional Scottish toast)
Arnhem Jim