I did something new today
By daeckardt
@daeckardt (6237)
United States
July 19, 2012 11:40am CST
I didn't really know what to expect when Phillip called me to go to the regional airport to "welcome back" one of our fallen soldiers. I knew it would be something of a somber event since this was a young man, but I knew that we wanted a Red Cross presence at this event. I was one of about 20 volunteers with the organization and there were probably 100 bike club members there as well. I hadn't heard anything about it before except what I was told by the Red Cross. I had a hard time standing there since my feet were so swollen up and I couldn't even put proper shoes on which didn't help matters at all. On the way back home Phillip stopped by WalMart so I could get more water and the cashier said she wasn't surprised that they didn't publicize it because of all the protestors that probably would have showed up. I hadn't even thought of that! I had noticed at every overpass on the way back to Columbia there were people waving flags and standing at attention as the motorcade went by. I am glad that I was able to be a part of this and wish that it wasn't necessary to be secretive about it since the family has a right to privacy and other people have a right to know; but since there are those who just want to make life miserable for anyone who doesn't think the way they do, it is sometimes necessary to be secretive. Have any of you participated in this type of event before?
2 people like this
3 responses
@GardenGerty (157691)
• United States
19 Jul 12
I have not participated, but I am grateful to the people who serve, ashamed of the people who picket and protest and proud of the escorts and greeters that represent all patriotic Americans.
2 people like this
@daeckardt (6237)
• United States
19 Jul 12
It is really gratifying to know that there are more people who think of this is a positive light instead of the negative. I just wish that the media would report more of the positive aspects instead of just the negative whether it be talking about the fallen coming home and the welcoming they get or the negatives like the protestors wanting to disrupt the proceedings. Thanks for your comments!
1 person likes this
@daeckardt (6237)
• United States
19 Jul 12
Unless a person is involved with the protests in some way, I think everyone should be present at one of these events at least once in a lifetime. I may not like the things the government does, but I don't hold my negative feelings toward the government be used against those who were just following orders. That would just be wrong! Thanks for your comments!
1 person likes this
@Hatley (163781)
• Garden Grove, California
19 Jul 12
hi daeckardt no I have no has the privelege to participate
in that type of event b ut would have loved to. This was
so nice of you to join, and I can image how awful your swollen
feet felt.I had not realized that that somber b ut moving event there would be anyone crass enough to protest it. that sounds sick to me.
to any protesters.
to any protesters.1 person likes this
@Hatley (163781)
• Garden Grove, California
30 Jul 12
hi daeckardt yes it would be wise to have a wheelchair ready the next time. me I have to use a walker and want to hate it but still it does help me to get around better. as a diabetic I seem to have lost my sense of balance. two falls so now its safety time for me.
