DC - Day One

After over sixteen hours on a bus yesterday, everyone was more than ready for a hot shower and a comfortable bed when we arrived at our hotel just outside Washington last night.  This morning, students and adults alike were a little more bright-eyed and ready to set out for an adventurous day.

As soon as we prepared to board our buses this morning, a light snow began to fall, adding to the already palpable excitement in the air.  We headed out, stopping at the Lincoln Memorial before spending the bulk of the morning at the National Cathedral. 

 

In addition to seeing a stunning example of a Gothic cathedral, students had the chance to see the grave of former president Woodrow Wilson, as well as the final resting place of Helen Keller and her teacher, Anne Sullivan.  During the cathedral tour, and Episcopal priest interrupted all tours to say a prayer -- something that is done several times a day.  More than one student commented on the wonderful opportunity of being led in prayer in such a majestic sanctuary.

After a brief stop at the National Zoo to see the pandas, we ate lunch at the Ronald Reagan office building in a food court that is literally under the street.  After this, we visited the World War II Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, and finally Arlington National Cemetery.

Arlington was, in a word, moving.  Students had the opportunity of visiting the grave sites of John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, Joe Lewis, as well as the former home of Robert E. Lee.  We then had the opportunity to witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns.  After this, Romil Patel, Lane DuBois, Ashley Ann Adams, and Samantha Russell placed a wreath at the tomb with the assistance of the honor guard, viewed by a few hundred silent onlookers.

We followed up Arlington with a quick trip to the Iwo Jima monument before eating supper and playing games at ESPN Zone.

All in all it was a great day.  The students represented Trinity in such a fine way.  They were ladies and gentlemen and you should be very proud of them.

All of our kids are now in their rooms, and we're about to hit the sack.  We need the rest for another big day tomorrow.

I'll get a report online tomorrow night, so be on the look out for it.