From the Desk of John Rourke

I’ve spent a good part of my life helping people – or at least trying to. I’ve helped neighbors by sharing my generator during a power outage, given jobs to friends unemployed – and gone above and beyond more times than I can count for work. I’ve pulled over on the highway after a van flipped and helped get a guy to safety. I’ve been sharing my thoughts on survival and the world today since 2010 and hopefully had a positive impact on a few people. I’ve tried to be “good people.”

Life can be unfair. It happens. I stopped writing on a regular basis nearly two years ago after my marriage ended. I did not feel comfortable sharing this event on 1776PatriotUSA and I know many of you wondered what happened. A little over a year ago I was promoted by the company I work for and moved from South Carolina to Georgia in November of 2018. This was a tremendous sacrifice, however, I was excited by the opportunity to contribute to the company I have worked at for nearly 22 years.

This past week I was let go from my job. No severance package. I’m a victim of big corporate decisions and not alone within this company. This is an obviously devastating turn of events – especially with what very well could be the most difficult economic conditions the country has ever experienced right around the corner.

Now what?

I’m aggressively looking for a job. I’ve already had an interview and been a featured guest on a podcast related to employment and work-life. I’m looking into part-time work until I can find something permanent. I will be doing a hardship withdrawal from my 401k , which has taken a beating dropping over $30,000 in the past couple weeks.

My kids are 4.5 hours away and I’m concerned for them with all the uncertainty. Cities are releasing criminals to decrease the chance of COVID-19 spreading within the jail population. Unemployment is increasing at an extremely rapid rate. Crime is going to increase.

My attitude is good. I’ve told a few people the following:

“It’s time to chew bubble gum and kick some ass…..and I’m all outta bubble gum.”

I’m going to be alright no matter what.

If you would like to help – I would very much appreciate it, however, make sure you and your family are good. These are tough times and I don’t think it’s going to get much better.

Listed below are a few ideas on how you can help.

 

Donation

Donations are a very simple method to provide support. Click the button below and you can donate any amount you choose.

 

Amazon

Follow any link from this website to Amazon, make a purchase, and we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Zero. Nada.

 

Purchase Products Offered Here(from me)

I have a few items that I sell on eBay and offer here on the website. The first is the Sawyer Mini Water Filter Bucket Kit. For only $9.99 with FREE SHIPPING this is a great product to add to the capabilities of the popular Sawyer Mini Water Filter. Click on the image below or THIS LINK to purchase.

To Order Directly click link below…..Order as many as you wish as I have plenty in stock.

 

Another available item is a single point sling adapter. This is the very same adapter I use on all my AR’s and feel it’s the best design. At $7.50 for one, or $12.99 for two and FREE SHIPPING it is a great deal.

single point sling adapter, AR-15

  Purchase Qty. 1 – $7.50

 

Purchase Qty. 2 – $12.50

 

Official 1776PatriotUSA Affiliates

There are a few select affiliates that I work with. Like Amazon, when you click any link related to these affiliates and order ANY item I receive a small commission with no additional cost to you.

When placing an order – return to this page, click the appropriate link, and place your order. Thank you!!

 

 Palmetto State Armory

Brownells
Augason Farms
 

THANK YOU!!!!

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23 Comments

    1. Vi says:

      Jr, you dont really know me, I’ve been reading your posts for a while and only started to comment recently. But you’ve saved my ass twice now. I’m better prepared than most around me in Australia from your info as I started prepping last year . From what I can tell you are good people, I think it’s either in your nature to help or not. I don’t have much but I’m happy to make a donation, but bloody Aussie dollar isn’t worth much but I hope it helps. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
      You all are in my prayers!

    1. JR says:

      Brick – I was a Plant Manager in a manufacturing plant. I have extensive skills and knowledge surrounding anything regarding a manufacturing plant. Lean manufacturing, OEE, Safety, visual manufacturing, leadership, project management, COPQ, ISO, etc. Appreciate it.

  1. Larry M says:

    JR – Sometimes life does suck and I know since I have been divorced three times after getting out of the Army. But 20+ years ago I met a good Christian woman who got me on the right path and now at 72 years old I finally am happy. You are a survivor and I hope the donation I just made helps you a little bit and am encouraging others to do the same. I have read your blog for a few years and have always appreciated your advice and recommendations since they are usually spot on. Keep the faith!

  2. KP says:

    JR – I haven’t been here in a while, but used to visit faithfully every day. I did wonder what happened. So sorry to hear about the double whammy. The fact that I stopped by on this day, of all days, I believe is a sign. The Good Lord wanted me to help, so I did. You have been a great resource to me and many others.

  3. Arlene says:

    Rourke- I have been a member of your prepping community for many years. You are a good man and I am sorry to hear about your loss and struggles. There is a manufacturing plant up here that may be looking for help but I do not know if you would be interested.It is called Kintz PLastics in Howes Cave, NY
    PLease e mail me your address so I can send a small donation. I have been a professional therapist for many years as well as a farmer . I have done a lot of listening and helping for free also. I wish I had known I might have been able to help you and your wife.If you ever wish to talk just e mail me.
    With prayers ,Arlene

  4. ralph k says:

    In all the years I have had the privilege to listen to your thoughts on so many of
    the challenges in life, my one main thought of you was, that you are a good man.
    You freely shared hard earned wisdom with total strangers with the highest of intention, and without the presumption of reward. The path chosen is one of virtue and truth. I do truly wish you well and God speed.

    This is an affirmation of progress and a brighter future, not a eulogy. A slight
    pause in time before renewing the rewards of life well lived, with meaning and purpose. You are one to be admired and respected. Kudos to you.

  5. John Taylor says:

    So sorry to hear what has happened with your marriage and your job. That sucks! I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

    I also have just been let go from the job I moved across country for. What I thought was going to be a longer term positive change has turned into disaster and leaving me scramble find work that just is not available right now.

    Hang in there!

    John

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