AuthorsDen: Reviews at a Glance

Recent Reviews for Joe Tuffy Tofuri

Tuffy's Heroes (Book) - 9/15/2004 5:58:24 PM
One of the best books I have read in years. This book stirred all the emotions from feeling the apprehension of the trainees, laugther to the point of tears, to some tears at the end of the book. Mr. Tofuri's writing immerses you in the BMT experience and I found that I couldn't wait to get home to see what happened next. For those who may not have a military connection the book is a delight and has some thought provoking insights that apply to the every day civilian workplace. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an enjoyable, (and I do mean enjoyable!), and thought provoking read. Mr. Tofuri, I look forward to reading your other books and will be looking forward to your next work.

The Ninth Commandment; thou shall not bear false witness (Book) - 6/17/2004 7:45:24 PM
I've just read the extract above on this page: it is so very vivid. I can sense the fear in the street - and I 'm terrified by the nightmare. It could get under my skin. Obviously, this book has not been written by an author who uses his imagination only - it is written by one who has had "battle experiance".

Tuffy's Heroes (Book) - 6/5/2004 11:25:29 AM
As a former Military Training Instructor (MTI/TI) I had the honor and pleasure of previewing Tuffy Tofuri's book 'Tuffy's Heroes'. I enjoyed the manuscript so much as soon as I was notified the book was available, I ordered it. The book chronicles the adventures/misadventures of young civilians going into Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT). Tuffy describes in graphic and profane language the trials and tribulations of basic trainees; the pressures on the TI by peers, supervisors and officers, and family. It is at times funny, outrageous, unbelievable, and very down to earth. As a TI that 'walked-the-walk' I got very immersed in the book as I related to all the incidents described. I remembered things I had forgotten but now were refreshed as I kept reading. This is a must read for all past and present MTI's/TI's; and although present TI's can't do many of the things Tuffy describes, it will give them some insight of the TI mindset at that time. Civilians who have never served in the military, much less in the MTI career field, might cringe at some of the things happening, but will also have compassion with the trainees and TI's as the weeks pass by. Tuffy details vividly the exasperation of the TI trying to meld civilians into a cohesive unit. When the TI gets some time off, he takes the work home or to the bar with him as he has a few beers with his friends. The most poignant portion of the book, in my opinion, is the last chapter as Tuffy is winding down after his flight graduates from BMT and he is contemplating the new flight coming. I can't describe in a few words how I felt, as I read and remembered my exact feelings during this time, when I too contemplated my graduates. I verily emphathize with Tuffy during this point in the book, so I leave you with the thought I now can 'talk-the-talk' about this great book!

Tuffy's Heroes (Book) - 2/24/2004 8:27:06 PM
Dear Tuffi What a thrill! I'm looking forward to reading the whole book. Your description of instrutors and recruits are so ..... vivid! Thanks for the most humourous memories this stimulates. Kamaradschaftlich Gabor

The Ninth Commandment; thou shall not bear false witness (Book) - 12/2/2003 4:22:21 PM
I like what i've read so far. i think i' have to get hold of a copy Paul

The Ninth Commandment; thou shall not bear false witness (Book) - 8/28/2003 3:12:31 PM
Outstanding! Brenda Mississippi (9/21/2002) This book completely eliminated any thoughts of a bathroom break! I was looking forward to the normal, "I get the blonde" type of private detective novel. But, to my surprise, this book has completely changed the concepts of the average, everyday private detective novel. It was breathtakenly wonderful! When the author began describing the "scents of his neighborhood", I could almost taste the Italian food. His characters are purely wonderful. It won't be long before people all over the country are talking about "Tony Boy" and "Vinny the T". A great read.

Film shoot of Room 333: The Voice of Terror (Short Story) - 5/22/2009 10:19:47 AM
Hope you get that call; you are in my prayers, Joe! (((HUGS))) and much love, your friend in Burleson, Karen Lynn. :D Happy Memorial Day, Veteran, and thank YOU for YOUR service! God bless YOU!! :) (I did NOT forget, nor will I EVER!!)

An Air Force basic recruit is a...WEREWOLF?!!! (Short Story) - 7/11/2008 11:25:04 PM
Dear Chief, An excellent read! Very funny indeed... In Lackland, Texas In the 1960's There was a situation. That needed special attention. A weird wolf was among the crowd. This weird wolf, was a maggot, and not too proud. The weird wolf attacks. But the TI strikes back. In a scenario only a few can relate. The TI made a man, of this lowly ingrate. In the end, it came to pass. That this wolf just had his head deeply pressed between his ____! John Michael Domino, Major, USAF (ret.) PS: Did you know a TSGT Buckner or SSGT Holden? They took off a piece of my spine back in Nov 1969. Flight 1756 - Airman Basic Domino No - we never forget our mentors! "Sir, yes, sir!"

Sequel to THE NINTH COMMANDMENT (Short Story) - 1/5/2007 2:22:29 AM
"scares the hell outta me!" also! Will be very much looking forward to the finished product. Ted

An Air Force basic recruit is a...WEREWOLF?!!! (Short Story) - 10/28/2005 1:10:22 PM

An Air Force basic recruit is a...WEREWOLF?!!! (Short Story) - 10/16/2004 9:41:06 PM
Extremely hilarious and so well told Tuffy. I simply must read the rest! Blessings, Rev Davey.

An Air Force basic recruit is a...WEREWOLF?!!! (Short Story) - 6/17/2004 5:57:37 PM
Great story, Sarge! Man, did some of that bring back memories of Lackland (some good, some not so good)..enjoyed it though... Terry V. (USAF 1983-1991)

An Air Force basic recruit is a...WEREWOLF?!!! (Short Story) - 6/16/2004 9:02:36 PM
What a story, Master Sergeant! I thoroughly enjoyed it. No doubt, Airman Wilson learned to soldier. However, I would have loved to have seen Sgt Nolan's face - especially after your last comment. Looking forward to the whole book with anticipation. Kamaradschaftlich Gabor

An Air Force basic recruit is a...WEREWOLF?!!! (Short Story) - 6/15/2004 2:29:09 PM
(((sgt. tofuri))) an air force basic recruit is a...werewolf!! is a funny story of what t.i.'s had to endure...and here we thought the same of t.i.'s, that they were vampires, at least, who loved to chew us up and spit us out :) i couldn't have done it--i would have killed a few recruits A LOL tale you've penned--and the best part, you lived it (and survived) THANK GOD i've got to have a copy of this book--keep me informed (((HUGS))) and love, karla. (usaf, 1983-85)

An Air Force basic recruit is a...WEREWOLF?!!! (Short Story) - 6/15/2004 10:23:46 AM
great story, sgt. tofuri! well done! *ALOOT!* and congrats on your forthcoming book! good for you! (((HUGS))) and love, your friend in tx., karen lynn. :D

Sequel to THE NINTH COMMANDMENT (Short Story) - 12/2/2003 4:11:48 PM
I think this is great Joe!! You make it all seem so real and scary! I shall definately want to read the rest of this story. I will be sure to track you as an author. Great writing, really enjoyed it!! All the best Donni-Jay

GOD, the Pledge of Allegiance, tradition and patriotism ! (Article) - 7/24/2007 7:23:42 AM
Joe---I am honored and impressed, you are a patriot. Aloha, Myles

Marine Corps Drill Instructors!!! (Article) - 4/21/2007 12:13:18 PM
I wrote a story myself about my son's experience from my point of view on boot camp and the USMC. While mom's hate to see DI's yell at our babies during boot camp, we later thank them for saving our son's lives.

How to purchase one of my books!! (Article) - 3/19/2007 3:14:42 PM
hope you sell a bunch

Marine Corps Drill Instructors!!! (Article) - 1/5/2007 2:00:52 AM
Great article, Tuffy! As a DI, you trained people to stay alive and keep their team alive. We look at the 3000+ casualties so far in Iraq and we think "how horrible," but, without their initial DI training, the death toll would be ten times worse. Nice job, Tuffy, and an excellent article! Ted

RESTRAINING ORDERS: The horrible truth!! (Article) - 6/24/2005 1:54:53 AM
I brought a women from Ukraine and marry her. After few months she was pregnant and she took an abortion without even asking me. After a month I wanted divorce, but she left the home and took an RO. Then my lawyer told me it was his third case in the year when a Russian/Ukrainian woman took RO when there was no violence at home at all. They take RO to cover their sham marriages and to stay in the US. They can stay if they are married for two years or they have a "documented" violence.

RESTRAINING ORDERS: The horrible truth!! (Article) - 1/12/2005 5:57:03 AM
Hi There, I'm new here at the authors den. I found your article very compelling, and very true. I cannot say it isn't. However, there is the other side to the story. You know it, so I won't re-tell it here. You know, the woman who takes out five million Ro's only to find herself with six bullets in her chest, because what the hell does it all mean anyway. I guess what I'm saying is what you've described in you article, and what I've briefly referenced above only reflects the failure of the system. I have been victimized by the system many times, when I encountered officers who just assumed, wrongly that what was going on was what you've described in the article. So I think the culprit is the system. Love is a tricky thing. Women and men behave strangely when in it's grasp. I put no blame on anyone but the professionals who should recognized this fact, and respond accordingly. That is, sifting the lies from the truth. Sadly, our system often fails to do just that. Thanks for a great and informative read!!!

RESTRAINING ORDERS: The horrible truth!! (Article) - 1/9/2005 4:42:26 AM
enjoyed this informative article

GOD, the Pledge of Allegiance, tradition and patriotism ! (Article) - 1/9/2005 4:41:40 AM
interesting article

GOD, the Pledge of Allegiance, tradition and patriotism ! (Article) - 1/7/2005 11:14:00 PM
Dear Comrade-in-Arms Tuffy! What a terrific impact! Your article is great in the contents and in the delivery. And I agree with you; such politicians are a disgrace to all citizens world-wide. Even as a Swiss citizen (and guess in what direction my countrymen were looking at in 1848, when they wrote the Swiss Second Constitution), I honor the flag of the United States. When you have your right hand on your heart, I stand "at attention", the priviledge given to me by your Flag Protocoll. Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778), whom I consider our greatest philosopher-politician, wrote: "Honor each man's country, yet love your own!" So where do those stand who have no love of their country, their flag, their faith, and no love for those who defend these issues - even with their lives if neccessary? No-where! So what are they doing in a parlement - of any country atall? Yours "kamaradschaftlich" Gabor

GOD, the Pledge of Allegiance, tradition and patriotism ! (Article) - 1/7/2005 10:20:30 AM
I say leave the pledge alone, and leave us who believe in God alone! I am right with you, Joe! If you don't like our beliefs, then GET OUT; that's all I have to say to those liberals or those who don't believe in God! Live in fear or terror; we don't need them poisoning our country or what it stands for! (((HUGS))) and much love, your friend in Tx., Karen Lynn. >:( (NOT mad at you, just mad at these liberals or those like Michael Newdow who are only hurting our country...they are the ones who should leave!!)

GOD, the Pledge of Allegiance, tradition and patriotism ! (Article) - 1/7/2005 9:00:05 AM
I am with you too and I have said that when you take God out of the equation what is left. For example study the new quarters in that George Washington is facing away from the word God the old ones have him facing God. That shows where our country went wrong. That is why I believe in evolution of monkeys where else did liberals, ACLU, Micheal Moore and the like come from.

GOD, the Pledge of Allegiance, tradition and patriotism ! (Article) - 1/7/2005 5:59:49 AM
Thanks, Joe. I'm 100% with you, and so are a lot of other people I know who are not afraid to speak out. Best, Chas.

GOD, the Pledge of Allegiance, tradition and patriotism ! (Article) - 1/6/2005 10:37:45 PM
Great write here Joe,I echo your statements God Bless Michelle

RESTRAINING ORDERS: The horrible truth!! (Article) - 9/23/2004 7:58:05 PM
You are an amazing informative writer Joe! I must, no matter what else I do, get back into your site and read everything you have written! Donni-Jay told me that you are her favourite Author and I can see why now! Blessings, Rev Davey

RESTRAINING ORDERS: The horrible truth!! (Article) - 6/17/2004 8:44:43 PM
Joe, thanks for this very important information. And I am shocked to learn about the missuse of the RO. Is this also valid in the State of Texas? What happends if the man goes and demands a RO before the woman does? And if they both do it at the same time? I know there are women who get physically and verbally missused by (their) men - and I have experienced the visa-versa of men coming to the triage of the hospital ... who finally admit in private what had happend to them. What really disgusts me are children treated in such a manner by their parents - especially the mother, or another woman taking care of the child. It takes too long of a time until such a person is found out as the child usually doesn't know where to turn to.

RESTRAINING ORDERS: The horrible truth!! (Article) - 12/7/2003 10:06:24 PM
A former neighbor had her ex arrested for violating an RO after she invited him over for Thanksgiving dinner-- as soon as he showed up, she called the cops.But while there are misuses, there ARE also cases where the order is denied-- in my own city, a woman was denied an RO and was later murdered by her boyfriend. Now, ALL ROs must be granted, no matter how unjustified, because the police department was sued over the death. I agree that some women are using ROs to harrass men, but some women truly do need them... there should be severe penalties for anyone who uses an RO improperly.

Louie's (Poetry) - 6/8/2009 6:01:46 AM
My food memory of the 50's is not Pizza, but the great hoagies we got at the corner grocery store and soda bar. Tom Maheck who is dead now, shredded cabbage for on the hoagies which gave them distintive taste. We went after school when Mother allowed and that was our hang out place and our dinner often too.

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 5/9/2009 7:08:50 AM
This poem is a powerful and heartfelt message. Also, it is a beautiful tribute to the brave men and women in the Air Force. I salute you! Please stop by my authors den sometime and let me know what you think of my work! I will be tracking your work and I look forward to reading more!

Louie's (Poetry) - 5/9/2009 7:05:34 AM
You have opened your heart and have shared your special memories. It will always be engraved in your brain and in your heart. Your simple, beautiful memory of the 1950's is well written in this poem. I can actually visualize the poodle skirts and see the pizza place. I was not born in the 1950's but I have seen pictures and movies about the 50's. It was a very special time for many people. Please visit my authors den sometime. I would love to see you review one of my poems or stories! Joanna Leone Connecticut

Louie's (Poetry) - 4/26/2009 4:54:48 PM
Old neighborhood pizza is the best still, not these new chains, oh and thanks alot, now I got the craving for a pizza...Ed

Louie's (Poetry) - 4/26/2009 8:18:07 AM
I'll bet that pizza was good!

Louie's (Poetry) - 4/26/2009 6:34:14 AM
What a nice stroll down memory lane! And the delicious taste of pizza never dies. Mary

Louie's (Poetry) - 4/26/2009 5:02:00 AM
Yes- and the music then was Perry Como and the Brothers Four...miss my Dad and his two-toned shoes. Great rethro poem It does bring back the 50's! Cynthia

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 10/14/2008 5:31:39 PM
I remember the era, the news broadcasts and you have captured it. CarolHawks

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 10/13/2008 10:02:42 AM
Thanks for serving our country and reminding us of those who still are! Sandy

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 9/16/2008 3:03:16 PM
It takes mighty strong people to go through basic training and drilling like you describe her. Those are the best people when finished though and our men and women serving their country are there because they want to be and I am so proud of them. It took much training to get them to where they are today. I just say a prayer for the Lord to keep them safe til they can all come home again.

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 7/11/2008 11:29:39 PM
A job well done Chief! I salute YOU! John Michael Domino, Major, USAF (ret.)

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 12/25/2007 4:42:20 AM
Very nicely done. You are technically expert in developing your vibrant mood, vivid imagery, compelling narrative and engaging theme. I was intrigued from beginning to end.

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 12/11/2007 8:55:10 AM
wow what a pome and story thanks for sharing it I myself am proud of all those who serve our country over the years,again thanks for a Grate Write!!!!

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 1/5/2007 2:06:33 AM
Right on, Tuffy! Write on! Ted

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 10/26/2006 10:51:30 PM
"In Search Of Thunder" A well written poetic narrative! I enjoyed myself at my daughters graduation in TX she made the thunder and we are so proud of her! Yes, you all will always be remembered in awe! Thank you for another bird's eye view of a MTI and the troops! Now that is coming from an Ex-JarHead Tuffy~ (((smile))) From the Heart of an Artist Quiet Storm

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 7/19/2006 4:26:35 PM
Great poem!!!!! How well I remember those days of drilling the troops. I recall your dignity, professionalism and determination to get the "sound of thunder".

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 4/21/2004 9:30:20 PM
A great write Tuffy. Thanks for sharing.

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 4/2/2004 9:10:33 AM
This is an excellent piece of poetry. Well metered and capture of image and ideal! Great job.

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 3/26/2004 4:40:00 PM
And kudos to you. It was a bad war, and an unnecessary one, but no one can fault the soldiers who fought in it.

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 3/23/2004 10:42:15 PM
I swear Karla knows everyone in Texas.. I loved the rhythm and beat in this poem - you certainly made it shine..and while I am not a supporter for war, I certainly respect the warriors who wear the uniform. My Dad was on the beach at Normandy with his brothers and he worked with a General as an MP.. I think this was great to write about your time. My Dad never talked about it and he's gone - so I can't really ask him. Nice job- keep writing what's in your heart. - Donna

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 2/17/2004 8:19:56 AM
Dear Comrade Tuffy The bitter-sweet memories rewaken of marching feet and the "hate-love affairs" we had with our "Instr-Uof" (Instructions-NCO) as a recruit - and then later the other way round... Great poetry - you have inspired me! Kamaradschaftlich and Bonne Service! Wachtmeister (ret. Sgt Gabor Renner, Swiss Army Medical Corps)

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 10/31/2003 10:56:30 PM
Very well written, Joe. I could hear the thunder of all those marching feet. Visit me sometime. Love in Christ~~ Bonnie Q Unicorn Haven

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 10/17/2003 9:05:04 AM
And now those days have long gone by, But my memories will never put asunder, How all those flights of men would try To search for that sound of thunder. Indeed the sound of thunder is a sound most revel in..I know I do!!! Well written, Enjoyed the write tremndously...nearly began marching myself..LOL Vesna

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 10/10/2003 8:14:56 AM
(((tuffy))) i'm so glad you re-posted this outstanding write--i can still make thunder LOL after twenty years LOL powerful and very moving piece--thank you, sir, for sharing it once again--into my library it goes (((HUGS))) and love *and a salute* karla. :)

In Search Of Thunder (Poetry) - 10/10/2003 7:57:38 AM
Wow..this was excellent, beautifully written, I felt this one so deeply this morning! Reindeer