M.D. CREEKMORE

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M.D. Creekmore

Hello, I’m M.D. Creekmore. I’ve been interested in self-reliance topics for over 25 years. I’m the author of four books that you can find at Amazon.com as well as Barnes and Noble. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about prepping, homesteading, and self-reliance topics through first-hand experience and now I want to share what I’ve learned with you.

Mastering the Key Concepts of Sun Tzu’s ‘The Art of War’

 

“The Art of War” is a military treatise written by Sun Tzu in the 5th century BC. It is composed of thirteen chapters, each of which provides insights and guidance on various aspects of warfare, including strategy, tactics, leadership, and the use of spies. The book has been translated into numerous languages and has been widely read and studied by military leaders, business executives, politicians, and sports coaches.

2. The Five Key Factors for Success

According to Sun Tzu, there are five key factors for success in war. These are:

Importance of Knowing Yourself

Sun Tzu argues that before going to war, a leader must know themselves, their strengths and weaknesses, and what they can and cannot do. This knowledge will help them to develop a strategy that is tailored to their capabilities and to avoid situations where they are likely to fail.

Importance of Knowing Your Enemy

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of knowing your enemy. He argues that a leader must study their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, their strategy, and their tactics. This knowledge will help the leader to anticipate their opponent’s moves, to identify their vulnerabilities, and to exploit them.

The Importance of Terrain

Sun Tzu argues that the terrain on which a battle takes place is a critical factor in determining the outcome of the battle. He advises leaders to choose their battleground carefully and to consider factors such as the weather, the geography, and the availability of resources.

The Importance of Leadership

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of leadership in war. He argues that a leader must lead by example, be decisive, and be able to inspire their troops. A good leader is one who can motivate their troops to fight for a common cause, even in the face of adversity.

The Importance of Methods

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of methods in war. He argues that a leader must be flexible and adaptable and must be able to use a variety of methods to achieve their objectives. A good leader is one who can improvise, adapt, and overcome.

3. The Nine Principles of Warfare

Sun Tzu also provides nine principles of warfare that leaders should keep in mind when planning and executing their strategy. These principles are:

The Principle of Strategy

Sun Tzu argues that a leader must have a clear and concise strategy that is based on an accurate assessment of their own strengths and weaknesses and an understanding of their opponent’s strengths and weaknesses.

The Principle of Offensive Action

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of offensive action in warfare. He argues that a leader should always seek to take the initiative and to attack their opponent’s weaknesses.

The Principle of Alliances

Sun Tzu advises leaders to seek alliances with other states or groups that share their interests. He argues that such alliances can help to strengthen a leader’s position and to provide additional resources and support.

The Principle of Army Organization

Sun Tzu stresses the importance of proper army organization. He argues that a leader must ensure that their troops are well-trained, well-disciplined, and well-equipped. A good leader is one who can maintain morale and discipline among their troops.

The Principle of Terrain

Sun Tzu argues that a leader must take into account the terrain on which a battle takes place. He advises leaders to choose their battleground carefully and to consider factors such as the weather, the geography, and the availability of resources.

The Principle of the Nine Battlegrounds

Sun Tzu identifies nine types of battlegrounds, including dispersive ground, facile ground, contentious ground, open ground, intersecting highways, serious ground, difficult ground, hemmed-in ground, and desperate ground. He argues that a leader must understand the characteristics of each type of battleground and how to use them to their advantage.

The Principle of the Army on the March

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of efficient logistics and supply chains. He argues that a leader must ensure that their troops have adequate food, water, and supplies and that they are well-rested and well-cared for.

The Principle of Variation in Tactics

Sun Tzu advises leaders to be flexible and adaptable in their tactics. He argues that a leader must be able to use a variety of tactics to respond to changing circumstances and to keep their opponent off balance.

The Principle of Using Spies

Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of using spies to gather intelligence on the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. He argues that a leader must be able to use this intelligence to anticipate their opponent’s moves, to identify their vulnerabilities, and to exploit them.

4. The Importance of Preparation and Adaptability

Sun Tzu stresses the importance of preparation and adaptability in warfare. He argues that a leader must be well-prepared for any eventuality and must be able to adapt to changing circumstances. A good leader is one who is always prepared and who can adjust their strategy as needed.

5. Conclusion

“The Art of War” is a timeless masterpiece on strategy and tactics that has been influential in various fields, including military strategy, business tactics, politics, and sports. The book provides valuable insights and guidance on leadership, strategy, tactics, and the use of spies. By understanding and applying the key concepts in the book, leaders can improve their decision-making, anticipate their opponent’s moves, and achieve their objectives.

6. FAQs

  1. What is “The Art of War”? “The Art of War” is an ancient Chinese military treatise written by Sun Tzu. It provides insights and guidance on various aspects of warfare, including strategy, tactics, leadership, and the use of spies.
  2. What are the key factors for success in war according to Sun Tzu? According to Sun Tzu, the key factors for success in war are knowing yourself, knowing your enemy, the importance of terrain, the importance of leadership, and the importance of methods.
  3. What are the nine principles of warfare according to Sun Tzu? The nine principles of warfare according to Sun Tzu are the principle of strategy, the principle of offensive action, the principle of alliances, the principle of army organization, the principle of terrain, the principle of the nine

Best Locations for Preppers in Tennessee

Tennessee is an ideal state for preppers, with its diverse landscape and rich natural resources. In this article, we’ll explore the best locations for preppers in Tennessee, focusing on the unique benefits and challenges of each area.

Cumberland Plateau

Elevated and Secluded

The Cumberland Plateau, located in the eastern part of Tennessee, offers a variety of advantages for preppers. Its elevated terrain provides a natural defense against potential threats and offers a more temperate climate for gardening and farming. The plateau’s secluded nature ensures a level of privacy and security that is difficult to find in more populated areas.

Abundant Water Sources

Water is a critical resource for any prepper, and the Cumberland Plateau boasts numerous water sources, including rivers, streams, and springs. Access to clean, fresh water is essential for long-term survival, making this area particularly attractive for prepping.

Rich Biodiversity

The Cumberland Plateau is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species, which can serve as valuable resources for preppers. The abundance of game animals, such as deer, turkey, and squirrels, provides ample opportunities for hunting and sustenance. Additionally, the region’s variety of edible plants, including berries, nuts, and mushrooms, can supplement a prepper’s food supply.

Smoky Mountains

Natural Protection and Seclusion

The Great Smoky Mountains, straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, offer preppers a rugged and remote location with unparalleled natural beauty. The mountains provide a natural barrier, making access difficult for potential threats. This seclusion ensures greater privacy and security for those seeking a safe haven.

Resource-Rich Environment

The Smoky Mountains are home to an abundance of natural resources, including timber, water, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. These resources can be utilized for shelter, food, and fuel, making the region a prime location for preppers.

Fertile Soil and Moderate Climate

The region’s fertile soil and moderate climate make it an excellent choice for gardening and farming. Preppers can grow a wide variety of crops, ensuring a sustainable food supply in the long term.

Land Between the Lakes

Strategic Location and Abundant Resources

Located in western Tennessee and extending into Kentucky, the Land Between the Lakes (LBL) area offers a unique combination of strategic location and abundant natural resources. This region is characterized by its two large reservoirs, Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, which provide an ample supply of fresh water for drinking, irrigation, and fishing. The surrounding forests are rich in timber, game animals, and edible plants, making the LBL area a valuable resource for preppers.

Defensive Advantages

The natural boundaries created by the lakes offer a defensive advantage for those seeking a secure location. With limited access points, preppers can more easily monitor and defend their properties from potential threats.

Recreational Opportunities

In addition to its prepping advantages, the Land Between the Lakes area offers a range of recreational activities, such as hiking, boating, and fishing. This makes it an attractive location for those who wish to balance self-sufficiency with a high quality of life.

Sequatchie Valley

Fertile Land and Agricultural Opportunities

The Sequatchie Valley, located in southeastern Tennessee, is a narrow valley known for its fertile soil and agricultural potential. The region’s mild climate and abundant rainfall make it an ideal location for preppers interested in cultivating crops and raising livestock. The valley’s agricultural heritage ensures a wealth of knowledge and resources for those looking to establish a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Access to Water and Natural Resources

The Sequatchie River runs through the valley, providing a reliable water source for irrigation and consumption. Additionally, the surrounding forests offer timber, game animals, and edible plants, further enhancing the area’s appeal for preppers.

Close-Knit Community

The Sequatchie Valley is home to a tight-knit community of residents who value self-sufficiency and cooperation. Preppers seeking a supportive network of like-minded individuals will find this area particularly appealing.

Conclusion

Tennessee boasts a diverse range of landscapes and resources that make it an ideal location for preppers. From the elevated and secluded Cumberland Plateau to the rugged and remote Smoky Mountains, each region offers its own unique set of advantages for those seeking a self-sufficient lifestyle. The strategic location and abundant resources of the Land Between the Lakes provide both defensive benefits and recreational opportunities, while the fertile land and agricultural potential of the Sequatchie Valley offer an ideal setting for cultivating crops and raising livestock.

Ultimately, the best location for preppers in Tennessee will depend on individual preferences and priorities. However, each of these areas offers a strong foundation for establishing a secure and sustainable way of life, making Tennessee a top choice for preppers in the United States.

Stocking a Year’s Worth of Food from Your Local Supermarket

As a prepper, one of the most important things you can do is to build a food supply that will last you and your family for at least one year. This will ensure that you are prepared for any disaster or emergency situation that may arise. While there are many options for building a long-term food supply, one of the easiest and most accessible ways is to do it all from your local supermarket. In this article, I’ll will show you how to build a prepper’s year food supply all from your local supermarket.

Why Build a Prepper’s Year Food Supply?

Before we dive into the specifics of how to build a prepper’s year food supply from your local supermarket, let’s take a moment to discuss why it’s so important to do so. There are many reasons why you should have a long-term food supply, including:

  • Natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, etc.)
  • Economic instability (e.g., job loss, hyperinflation, etc.)
  • Political instability (e.g., civil unrest, war, etc.)
  • Pandemics or other public health emergencies

In any of these scenarios, it may not be possible to access food from your local grocery store or even from nearby towns. Having a prepper’s year food supply ensures that you and your family will have enough food to sustain yourselves until things return to normal.

Assess Your Food Needs

Before you start buying food, you need to assess how much food you and your family will need for one year. This will depend on several factors, including:

  • The number of people in your household
  • Age and gender of household members
  • Activity level of household members
  • Any special dietary requirements or preferences

As a general rule, you should aim to have at least 2,000 calories per person per day. You should also take into account the nutritional value of the food you are buying. Aim for a variety of foods that provide all the essential nutrients your body needs.

Stock Up on Non-Perishable Foods

Once you have assessed your food needs, it’s time to start stocking up on non-perishable foods. Non-perishable foods are foods that have a long shelf life and do not require refrigeration. They include:

  • Canned goods (e.g., vegetables, fruits, meats, soups, etc.)
  • Dry goods (e.g., pasta, rice, beans, flour, sugar, etc.)
  • Oils and vinegars
  • Spices and seasonings
  • Baking supplies (e.g., yeast, baking powder, baking soda, etc.)
  • Coffee and tea
  • Nut butters and dried fruits

When buying non-perishable foods, it’s important to pay attention to the expiration dates. Choose foods that have a long shelf life and rotate your stock to ensure that you are consuming the oldest food first.

What Is The BEST SURVIVAL FOOD With Long Shelf Life?

Stock Up on Perishable Foods

While non-perishable foods will make up the bulk of your prepper’s year food supply, it’s also important to stock up on some perishable foods and use these in a first-in-first-out rotation. These could include:

  • Hard cheeses (e.g., cheddar, parmesan, etc.)
  • Dried meats (e.g., beef jerky, salami, etc.)
  • Apples, oranges, and other fruits that can be stored in a cool, dark place
  • Carrots, potatoes, and other root vegetables that can be stored in a cool, dark place
  • Eggs (store in the refrigerator)
  • Butter (store in the refrigerator or freezer)

When buying perishable foods, it’s important to pay attention to the storage requirements. Keep perishable foods in the appropriate storage location and ROTATE.

A sample food storage checklist to get you started.

Food Amount for One Adult for One Year Estimated Shelf-Life
Rice 400 pounds Indefinite if stored properly
Pasta 120 pounds 2 years
Beans (dried) 120 pounds 2-3 years
Canned fruits 60 cans (15 oz) 1-2 years
Canned vegetables 120 cans (15 oz) 2-5 years
Canned meats (chicken, beef, tuna) 60 cans (12 oz) 2-5 years
Peanut butter 60 pounds 2 years
Jelly/jam 20 pounds 1-2 years
Crackers 120 pounds 6 months – 2 years
Oats 75 pounds 1-2 years
Flour 75 pounds 1-2 years
Sugar 60 pounds Indefinite if stored properly
Salt 8 pounds Indefinite if stored properly
Honey 20 pounds Indefinite if stored properly
Powdered milk 25 pounds 1-2 years
Canned soups 60 cans (15 oz) 2-5 years
Canned chili 24 cans (15 oz) 2-5 years

Please note that the estimated shelf-life can vary depending on the storage conditions and the specific brand/product. It’s important to check expiration dates and rotate your stock to ensure that you are consuming the oldest food first… ROTATE

Utilize Sales and Discounts

Building a prepper’s year food supply can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. One way is to take advantage of sales and discounts offered by your local supermarket. Look for buy-one-get-one-free deals, clearance items, and coupons. Stock up on items when they are on sale and rotate your stock to ensure that you are consuming the oldest food first.

Consider Buying in Bulk

Another way to save money on your prepper’s year food supply is to buy in bulk. Many supermarkets offer bulk items at a discounted price. Look for bulk grains, beans, and other dry goods. Consider investing in a vacuum sealer to preserve bulk items and extend their shelf life.

Create a Storage Plan

Once you have stocked up on your prepper’s year food supply, it’s important to create a storage plan. Store non-perishable foods in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Consider storing them in airtight containers to prevent pests and moisture from getting in. Perishable foods should be stored in the appropriate storage location (e.g., refrigerator or cool, dark place) and rotated regularly.

Tips For Long-Term Rice Storage

Storing rice (These steps can also be used for beans, pasta, and other dried foods) for long-term prepper storage is a great way to ensure that you have a reliable food source in case of emergencies. Here are some steps you can follow to store rice for the long-term:

  1. Choose the Right Type of Rice: Not all types of rice are ideal for long-term storage. Brown rice, for example, has a shorter shelf life than white rice. Choose a type of rice that has a low moisture content, such as long-grain white rice or basmati rice.
  2. Store in a Cool, Dry Place: The ideal storage location for rice is a cool, dry place that is free from sunlight and humidity. The temperature should be between 50-70°F. Avoid storing rice near any sources of heat, such as ovens or stoves.
  3. Use Airtight Containers: Store rice in airtight containers to prevent moisture and pests from getting in. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids or food-grade plastic containers with gasket seals are good options. You can also use Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers.
  4. Add Oxygen Absorbers: Oxygen absorbers are small packets that absorb oxygen from the air and help to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. Add one or two oxygen absorbers to each container of rice. Be sure to use the correct size oxygen absorber for the container size.
  5. Label and Date the Containers: Label each container with the type of rice and the date of storage. This will help you keep track of how long the rice has been stored and when it needs to be rotated out.
  6. Rotate Your Rice: Rice has a shelf life of about 2-3 years when stored properly. To ensure that your rice stays fresh, rotate it out every 2-3 years and use the older rice first.

By following these steps, you can store rice for long-term prepper storage and have a reliable food source for emergencies.

Don’t Forget Water

In addition to food, it’s important to stock up on water. Aim to have at least one gallon of water per person per day. Store water in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. Consider investing in a water filtration system or water purification tablets in case you need to purify water from an unsafe source.

Conclusion

Building a prepper’s year food supply all from your local supermarket is an easy and accessible way to ensure that you and your family are prepared for any disaster or emergency situation. Assess your food needs, stock up on non-perishable and perishable foods, take advantage of sales and discounts, buy in bulk, create a storage plan, and don’t forget water. With these steps, you can be confident that you have enough food to sustain yourselves for at least one year.

FAQs

  1. Can I buy pre-packaged emergency food kits instead of building my own?
  • Yes, you can buy pre-packaged emergency food kits. However, they can be expensive and may not provide the variety and nutritional value of building your own supply.
  1. How often should I rotate my food supply?
  • It’s recommended to rotate your food supply every six months to ensure that you are consuming the oldest food first and to prevent spoilage.
  1. Should I store my food supply in a basement or garage?
  • It depends on the climate and conditions of your basement or garage. The storage location should be cool, dry, and away from sunlight.
  1. What should I do if I run out of food before the one-year mark?
  • Consider rationing your food supply or finding other sources of food (e.g., hunting, fishing, foraging). It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in case your food supply is depleted.
  1. Can I include frozen foods in my prepper’s year food supply?
  • Frozen foods can be included, but they are not recommended as a primary source of food. In the event of a power outage, frozen foods can spoil quickly.

Disaster Preparedness for EMP Attacks and Solar Storms

An EMP, or electromagnetic pulse, is a burst of electromagnetic radiation that can cause damage to electronics and electrical systems. An EMP strike, whether caused by a nuclear weapon detonated in the atmosphere or by a high-altitude EMP (HEMP) device, could potentially cripple a country’s infrastructure and electronic systems. In recent years, there has been increasing concern about the possibility of an EMP strike on the United States by Russia or China.

What is an EMP?

An EMP is a burst of electromagnetic radiation that can damage or destroy electronic devices and electrical systems. EMPs can be caused by a variety of sources, including solar storms, and nuclear explosions. When a nuclear weapon is detonated in the atmosphere, it creates a high-energy pulse of electromagnetic radiation that can damage or destroy electronic systems over a wide area.

What electronics would be affected by an EMP?

An EMP strike could potentially damage or destroy a wide range of electronic devices and systems, including:

  1. Electrical power grids: An EMP could cause widespread power outages by damaging electrical transformers and other components of the power grid.
  2. Communications systems: An EMP could damage or destroy cell phone towers, communication satellites, and other communication infrastructure.
  3. Transportation systems: An EMP could disrupt transportation systems by damaging or destroying electronic controls for cars, trucks, and airplanes.
  4. Medical equipment: An EMP could damage or destroy medical equipment, including life-saving devices like ventilators and defibrillators.
  5. Financial systems: An EMP could disrupt financial systems by damaging or destroying electronic banking and transaction systems.
  6. Water and sewage systems: An EMP could damage or destroy electronic controls for water and sewage treatment systems, potentially leading to widespread contamination.
  7. Military systems: An EMP could damage or destroy electronic systems used by the military, including communications and weapon systems.
  8. Computers: An EMP could damage or destroy computers, including personal computers, servers, and data centers.
  9. Consumer electronics: An EMP could damage or destroy consumer electronics, including televisions, radios, and home appliances.
  10. Other electronic devices: An EMP could damage or destroy a wide range of other electronic devices, including electronic toys, gaming consoles, and other entertainment devices.

What can people do to prepare for an EMP strike?

  1. Stock up on non-perishable food and water: In the event of an EMP strike, access to food and water could be severely limited. It’s important to have a supply of non-perishable food and water stored in a safe location.
  2. Learn basic survival skills: In the event of an EMP strike, it’s possible that people may need to rely on their own survival skills to stay alive. Basic survival skills like starting a fire, building a shelter, and finding clean water should be learned and practiced.
  3. Create a Faraday cage: A Faraday cage is a container made of conductive material that can protect electronic devices from the effects of an EMP. Building a Faraday cage to store important electronic devices like radios and medical equipment can help ensure that they survive an EMP strike.
  4. Invest in solar power: Solar power can be a reliable source of electricity in the event of a power outage caused by an EMP. Investing in solar panels and a battery backup system can help ensure that you have access to electricity when the grid goes down.
  5. Store cash: In the event of an EMP strike, access to electronic banking and financial systems could be severely limited. It’s a good idea to store cash in a safe location so that you have access to money if electronic payment systems are unavailable.
  6. Learn self-defense: In the event of an EMP strike, law and order may break down. Learning self-defense skills can help ensure that you and your family are protected in the event of a violent situation.

You can order Arthur T. Bradley’s book here – Disaster Preparedness for EMP Attacks and Solar Storms (Expanded Edition).

Where is the safest place to be in Tennessee if a nuclear war happened

In today’s world, the possibility of a nuclear war is a frightening reality. With countries like Russia and China increasing their nuclear capabilities, it is important to consider the question of where the safest place to be in Tennessee would be in the event of a nuclear war.

In this article, we will explore some of the factors to consider when seeking shelter from a nuclear war, as well as the most likely cities and towns to be targeted in such an event.

Factors to Consider in Seeking Shelter from a Nuclear War

There are several factors to consider when seeking shelter from a nuclear war. The first and most obvious consideration is the distance from potential targets.

Cities and towns that are closer to military bases or other strategic targets are more likely to be hit in the event of a nuclear war.

The farther away you are from these targets, the better your chances of survival.

Another factor to consider is the terrain. Mountains and hills can provide natural shelter from nuclear fallout, as they can absorb some of the initial blast and radiation.

Underground shelters and bunkers are also ideal, as they can shield you from the immediate effects of a nuclear blast and the radiation that follows.

Prevailing winds are also a crucial factor to consider, as fallout can be carried by the wind for hundreds of miles. Being upwind of potential targets or fallout zones can significantly reduce your exposure to radiation.

Likely Tennessee Cities and Towns to Be Targeted in a Nuclear War with Russia and China

In the event of a nuclear war with Russia and China, it is likely that major cities and military installations would be the primary targets. Cities with large populations, significant military presence, and strategic importance would be the most likely targets.

The most likely targets in Tennessee would be the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the Arnold Engineering Development Complex in Tullahoma, and the Fort Campbell military base. Major cities like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville would also be high on the list of potential targets.

While it’s impossible to predict exactly where a nuclear attack would occur, these targets provide a general idea of where a nuclear strike could be aimed.

10 Things to Do to Prepare for a Nuclear War

Preparing for a nuclear war is a daunting task, but there are several things you can do to increase your chances of survival.

  1. Educate yourself on the dangers of nuclear war and the best ways to protect yourself.
  2. Create an emergency plan that includes a designated shelter, a stockpile of supplies, and an evacuation route if necessary.
  3. Invest in a radiation detector to monitor radiation levels in your area.
  4. Purchase a supply of non-perishable food and bottled water that can last for at least several weeks.
  5. Stock up on essential medical supplies, including first aid kits, prescription medications, and any other necessary medical equipment.
  6. Consider investing in a gas mask or other protective equipment to reduce your exposure to radiation.
  7. Choose a shelter location that is upwind of potential targets, ideally in a rural area or underground bunker.
  8. Consider creating a community of preppers to share resources and knowledge in the event of a nuclear war.
  9. Plan for communication with loved ones, even if phone lines and internet access are down.
  10. Stay informed about potential threats and any developments in nuclear weapons technology.

Conclusion

In the event of a nuclear war, no location can be considered completely safe. However, by considering the factors mentioned above and taking steps to prepare for the worst-case scenario, you can increase your chances of survival.

Whether you choose to seek shelter in an underground bunker, a rural area, or simply stockpile supplies and prepare an emergency plan, taking action now can help protect you and your loved ones in the event of a nuclear war.