My son was out in Idaho a few years back taking AIT. (Advanced Individual Training for you non military types.)
One afternoon he was sitting on some steps outside his barracks after dinner talking to one of his many girl friends. He told her that a badger just walked through the parking lot.
She said (not too bright) "Oh I have never seen a real badger. Take a picture of him for me with your camera phone."
My son (knowing that you don't mess with badgers who are not bothering you) told her that he didn't think that would be such a good idea.
"OH PLEASE? yada yada yada."
My son decides to follow at a distance until he can get a picture of said badger. (not very bright idea.)
So he is walking thru the parking lot. The badger is now past the parking lot out in an open field. My son does not realize that he is UP WIND of the badger even though there is very little wind at all.
The badger turns and chases my son.
He was a cross country runner in high school. I think he out ran his best time and did so without warming up in boots holding his phone.
He gets to the barracks door, takes out his key card and swipes it through the keyless pad.
Red light.
He looks over his shoulder and the badger is still coming for him. He swipes the card again.
Red light. Badger gets closer.
Swipes the card again.
Red light.
Checks over his shoulder and the badger is almost to him. There is no place for him to run.
Tries to calm down and and focus. Swipes the card yet again.
Green light! Opens the door and slams it shut behind him.
Never did get that photo.
I think everyone going to Afghanistan or Iraq should be on the outside of a door with a badger chasing them before they head overseas! Excellent training.