Monday, June 11, 2007

Dallas





I knew what to expect when we deplaned in Dallas but knowing it didn’t really prepare me for what happened. As we got off the plane and headed towards customs we were on the upper level from one of the ticketing areas. The walkway was glass enclosed so we could see down to the waiting passengers and they could see us. As we began to walk around the ticketing area the passengers began to clap and cheer, some even stood up to clap, cheer and wave. And that wasn’t even the planned reception. As I looked at all those faces looking up at us I was overcome with a tremendous feeling of pride for the privilege I have of wearing my uniform and serving my country. I’ll concede that it actually caused my throat to tighten and my eyes get a little bit wet. I couldn’t help it. It was such a cool thing to see and experience.

As we cleared customs that’s where we were met by an organized mob of cheering, whistling, waving, smiling people. There were easily over 300 people there. Signs of support were everywhere. Hundreds of flags were waving. People were reaching out to shake your hand, to touch your uniform, to simply let you know that you were loved and supported. Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, retired soldiers from the Korean Conflict in their dress uniforms were there. Families with young children, Grandparents. You name it, they were there. People were thrusting water bottles, Girl Scoutt cookies, bags of goodies, flags and all other sorts of things at us. That’s where I lost it. I had tears in my eyes. I couldn’t help it. The raw emotion in that room was so overpowering. Once again, the pride at being able to wear this uniform and the tremendous outpouring of support simply overcame my ability to keep my emotions in check.

As I finally made my way through the cheering throng and was waiting for the shuttle to take me to my gate, a young boy approached me and asked me for my autograph. His brother ran over and thrust his autograph book into my hand. Their mother then asked if they could take their picture with me. Here we are. Their mother said that her boys absolutely love to come to the airport and cheer for the soldiers. I can only imagine that they will grow up to be soldiers themselves.

As I looked at all these people I couldn’t believe the generosity, the support and the love for the troops. People like this gather every time a R&R flight comes in and that’s just about every day. These people were performing a vital service for us, one that I’ll never forget. I was truly humbled by their willingness to come down and cheer for total strangers. I wondered if I lived in the Dallas area would I be willing to do this same thing. I hope that I would.

3 comments:

Haole Wahine said...

I just happened to be in Dallas, and was so happy to see the welcome you guys receive. My cousin had told me about it, but words just can't describe it. You did a great job, though. I was on crutches, so not aable to be a part of the crowd. I just stood back and watched. I read so many blogs, and letters from our guys and gals, that I just wished they could all come through Dallas. I understand there are other welcomes, too, but being TEXAS it's just gotta be bigger right. I was so proud. You're whole story of leave was great. Welcome back to the blog and you know where, but I hope you leave REAL soon. The difference you are making is wonderful. I just wish there was some way it could be done without being away from family and home so long.

Anonymous said...

What a great reception - made me tear up just reading about it. What a difference 35 years makes - and I'm so glad. My son-in-law is an Army officer, my son is a Naval officer and my husband is retired Navy enlisted. The military is near and dear to my heart and I enjoy reading your blog.
A reader in Orlando

Sam Anderson said...

Returning home from a long foreign trip is always great. People feel happy to take their family on a trip.
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