Monday - Day 1

Well we have arrived safely and hit the ground running. Our main mode of transportation is the Metro (Washington's subway). This was a first for some of our guys. After dropping off our bags and grabbing a bite, we headed to the Smithsonian museums. First stop was the Air and Space Museum. Here we got to see the Wright Brothers plane, Spirit of Saint Louis, Amelia Earnhart's plane and many of the various crafts used to explore space. Several of the guys took part in the flight simulators they had set up. Both Thomas and Dakotah enjoyed the simulator the most so far. Marshall and Clayton both want me to mention they had 13 kills in their simulator. The other guys were around 6 or 7. (I think because they spent most of their time just doing barrel rolls).

Our next stop was the Museum of Natural History. This museum is best known for the dinosaur bones, mummies and for the Hope Diamond. This was Brian's favorite stop of the day.

Our final Smithsonian stop was the museum was the Museum of American History. Here we got to see the Hall of Presidents, the Price for Freedom, the Lincoln Story, as well as the ruby slippers from "The Wizard of Oz" and the pirate shirt from "Seinfeld." This is by far my favorite of the Smithsonian's. I love the history of our great nation. I especially like to see "Old Glory."

After dinner, we walked the Mall. We stopped at the World War II Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and the Korean Memorial. Marshall, Troy and Clay were all moved by the Vietnam Memorial. The reflection of those looking at the mall reminds us all to reflect on the sacrifice people make to defend our freedom. While there we also learned that the Tomb of the Unknown no longer has a representative for the Vietnam War because he was identified. We found his name of the wall (Michael J. Blassie).

We have walked several miles. The boys are worn out and should have no problem sleeping.