Tonight Catrina, Reegan, and I got to have one of the neatest experiences ever. A group of WW2 veterans had traveled to DC to see the memorials and I, along with many others, went to the airport to greet them as they came home. They had no idea what was waiting for them as the walked/strolled in wheelchairs through the door! Their looks ranged from serious, surprise, smiles, tears, and even a few who danced to the highschool marching band as they walked through the mob of people reaching out to shake their hands, give hugs, hand out balloons with thank you notes attached, and say thank you. One gentleman said as he shook hands with each person, "This was the best part of the whole trip!!" :)
This was special enough. However, it just so happened that my little superman's great grandfather was one of the veterans! It was so special to personally know one of the men coming through.
Waiting for the plane to land...
Even my doctor came just to show his support! (the guy in the black shirt on the left)
How sweet is this?! Just wait...
I didn't plan to be there with Superman and his family but it worked out that we hung out together!
Finally they were here!
Catrina shook lots of hands and talked to many of the men.
Still waiting for a familiar face...
This is Superman's great grandmother...and she sees her man! :}
It's him!
These were the only two women on the plane. I'm not sure what their jobs were in the war, but I am thankful for them too!
Lauren's boss hung out with us too and made sure to get her picture taken with a veteran.
ok, ready?
Awww!!
Reegan handing a balloon and thank you note to one gentleman.
This man shook Catrina's hand and wouldn't let go. Then he asked if Reegan was her daughter and told her she was beautiful (which she is!).
"Can I get a hug???"
I think he enjoyed that hug... lol!
It's moments like this that make you remember that no matter what political side you're on, no matter what you think of the government shutdown, no matter the things going on in our country that you may disagree with...when you're standing in a line like this, you remember that really, at the heart of our country are the men who loved it enough to protect it and us and our freedoms. They are who I want to think of when I hear the name America.
Thank you to those of you who have served of are serving. And to those who I know of who are currently stationed overseas, I am praying God will bring you safely home to your families...you also deserve a welcome home like this! :)
