I get severe muscle tensions in my calf and shin, I run a good pace about 6-7mph, on a track. After about 1/2 mile my calf muscles are rock hard, swollen to a huge size, extremely painful shin splints too, so bad it just literally hurts too much to run any farther, I stretch twice a day, really good deep stretches and they don't seem to do anything to help. I have no idea what is wrong, or what I could possibly be doing wrong. It's been like this for two weeks now, and it seems to be happening sooner in the run as well. Any ideas?

This sounds very much as an acute compartment syndrome. STOP running and get a diagnosis by an orthopedist. Stretches or anything other will not likely help.

Typical of too much, too fast. Improper preparation, and not enough hydration. You start slow by walking and gradually build to running. How old are you and have you had a physical or guidance with a well thought out plan to get your body prepared to run?

Research this better and do it properly. Your body is telling you that you have gone about this the wrong way and you should listen, and make the proper adjustments.

I never stretch before running, but I work into it with a short walk at a brisk pace. I stretch after to release the tension in the muscles. And as tal said, more hydration before.