GOHS Day 3

Today was yet another hectic and memorable day.

First order of business was the Arlington National Cemetery. The group was extremely moved by the vast number of headstones, representing fallen military veterans. We learned that the cemetery has another 25-30 years before it would be filled and a new National Cemetery location begins. Within the cemetery we say the JFK memorial, which includes the Eternal Flame, as well as the Tomb of the Unknown soldier. We also saw the changing of the guard, which include a wreath laying ceremony. We learned that each time a soldier walks, he takes 21 steps, then pauses for 21 seconds, then takes 21 steps, all in line with a 21 gun salute. The precision for which these guards walked was amazing.

After Arlington we saw the Iwo Jima memorial, which re-enacts the historic 'raising of the US flag.' The statue was made out of Bronze and is the largest known bronze cast statue. It took over 7 years to create.

We then headed out for lunch and a walk on the Capitol mall, which is where the inauguration will be held. Preparations were well under way. Hundreds of port-o-potties were lined up (the important stuff!) and barriers being created. We heard some rehearsals of songs, and took pictures in front of the Capitol and in front of the House of the Senate. Overall, all visitors to the area were extremely friendly and asking where everyone was from. We met a couple from Atlanta, a lady from Hawaii, students from Texas. People from all over the US were coming to DC and you could just sense the excitement in the air. Lots of conversations were going on as to "where will you be for Inauguration" as everyone was looking for any bit of insight for how to get closer to the events. The big decision is Inauguration or Parade, since the crowd size will make it nearly impossible to do both. The consensus is that we're all here for the Inauguration, so we'll start there then attempt the parade afterwards.

After the Capitol and walking the mall, taking photo ops, we went to dinner then to the Lincoln Memorial (it was finally re-opened after the concert from yesterday). Then we were off to the FDR memorial, which included a "Prologue" of him in a wheelchair, since his original memorial did not depict this (it was widely unknown during his Presidency that he relied on a wheelchair, as it was a sign of weakness). The prologue was added during the Clinton Presidency after complaints from Disabled advocates.

Now we're back at the hotel and getting a good night's rest for the big day. Everyone is thrilled as this is what we came here for...everything else was just an added bonus.

Below are the comments from the students on their favorite parts of today's events. Hope you enjoy!

I liked the Arlington cemetery because I have never been to a cemetery. And even though its sad it touched me. -Nada

The thing i liked the most is the the Lincoln Memorial because Lincoln was a God and i would be picking cotton without him. -Mike

The Arlington Memorial had incredible love and respect given to the brave men and women of our Country. - Sam

When I saw the 21 march at Arlington Cemetery it gave me strength and hope to know there are people out there that are serious and prideful about the traditions of our country. -Katelyn

The Arlington national cemetery opened my eyes about how this country is able to be the way it is. I witnessed the expensive price of freedom. A lot of the liberties we have today are taken for granted until Arlington. Our freedoms have been paid for with blood by our brave soldiers; i am forever grateful for their sacrifice - Billy

The Iwo Jima memorial was a powerful message convey during a difficult time for our country. its artistically beautiful and the resiliency of the American spirit. - April

I liked the FDR Memorial the best because I learned a lot of good facts about FDR. He was in a wheelchair and he pull the country out of two crisis. -Clint

The Lincoln memorial was soooo big and the Gettysburg address was monumental. I texted all my friends and family about it. - Amanda R.

The most amazing things we saw today were the Iwo Jima memorial, were they raised the flag, because it is a amazing demonstration of how strong our country is. I have always seen the Lincoln Memorial on TV but never realized how big and intense the size. - Jordan

Arlington housed many people who served for the love of there country. Even the unknown soldiers were recognized. I have so much pride and honor for America. -Sandra

Lincoln gave Obama a shot at the Presidency and Obama took it! - Kristina

My favorite part of the day was the changing of the guards at Arlington and the Lincoln Memorial because he is the most famous person in American history. - Chris

Today I walked past the headstones of those who served our nation. My heart ached but I felt it important that I see this. I feel for the family of those at Arlington. -Amanda L.

I just learned about this time period in AP US History, so seeing all the stuff in the Lincoln Memorial was cool. I also was able to make correlations to the Civil War stuff I learned, which was cool. - Ben

My favorite part was Abe Lincoln's memorial because it had information that was totally awesome and he did so much in his time like free the slaves. -Lauren

My favorite thing in DC was being able to pay my respects to my favorite President, Mr. Abraham Lincoln. I got to say thank you for all of his epic and amazing accomplishments such as keeping the United States a single nation and freeing the African American slaves. He was a cornerstone in our nation and I am glad I got the opportunity to say Thank You. - Ricky

Today my favorite thing that we did was going to the Arlington Memorial and seeing all of the love and respect that was given to the brave men and women that served honorably. -Samantha

What I LOVED today was the Arlington Cemetery. When I saw the Changing of the Guard, it gave me strength and hope to know there are people out there that are serious and prideful about traditions of our country. It was beautiful. -Katelyn

We probably won't be able to update the blog on Inauguration Day as we're heading to the airport right after the parade, so we'll be sure to update as soon as we return back to warm sunny Southern California, with a new President at the reigns.

Megan & Aaron