Today, Mo and I participated in Operation Homefront's Freedom Walk. If you have never taken part in something like this, I give it two thumbs up. I was slightly disappointed in the turn out but what we lacked in size we made up for in enthusiasm.
Jacksonville Air Force Base Color Guard started us off during opening ceremonies with the presentation of Colors. I must admit that I do get teary eyed when The National Anthem is played.
These were the T-shirts that each participant received.
This is Lincoln, he was so adorable during the 1 1/2 mile walk. He actually made it half the walk before he had to hitch a ride on his dad's shoulders. His parent's told us that they did not have anyone in their family that is in the Military nor do they know anyone that is active duty. They have participated for the last 2 years because Service members do what they do so that we can do what we do and they just wanted to say Thank you.
I do not know this precious lil one's name but had to include this picture. She was so happy the whole day and considering that her family was one of the first ones to arrive around 7:00 a.m. that is saying a lot.
The guest speaker today was Deena Burnett, the widow of Tom Burnett .
The Following excerpt was taken from the Tom Burnett Family Foundation website:
On September 11, 2001, Thomas E. Burnett Jr. became an American hero. On the same morning of the terror attacks on New York’s World Trade Center and the Pentagon, the plane on which Burnett was a passenger was hijacked. He called his wife Deena from the plane several times, telling her, “We have to do something. I’m putting a plan together.” Later he said, “We’re waiting until we get over a rural area. We’re going to take back the airplane.”
Tom and a handful of fellow passengers accosted the hijackers, causing United Flight 93 to crash into a Pennsylvania field, rather than into another American landmark. All on board were killed, but no one on land perished. Tom died a hero and will be remembered the way he lived his life each day – with character, faith, courage, leadership, spirit, and integrity.
I do not have to tell you what an honor it was to hear this lady speak.
Well that about wraps up our weekend.
God Bless,
Tami
4 comments:
Great post. I am looking for one in Tampa. In 13 days I will be at Wright Patterson. I would love to meet your son if he is game. That way I can give him a coin in person!!!
Ignore my post above. I had to leave the computer in the middle of the post and came back thinking I was commenting on airmanmons blog.
I DID find one here in Tampa. It is this Saturday and Anna and I will be doing it. We wanted to go to MacDill anyway so it works. The walk is down near the base (I think). Anway, we signed up!!!
Lincoln is too cute. At least he's growing up to appreciate the good ole' USA
What great pictures and a great day! I've watched the Flight 93 movie on TV twice this past weekend - it just breaks my heart. It sure is quite a story about those brave souls. I'm proud of your son - and of you too!
Take care and see you soon - Kellan
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