Final Remarks

The morning of the 21st began at Arlington National Cemetery. We were all still a little tired after Inauguration Day, but the sleep shook off of us as we began to walk around the cemetery.
I was struck by the sheer number of soldiers laid to rest here. It was even more proof that freedom does not come freely; a price must be paid. These soldiers gave their lives for our country, and it was humbling to see the place they were laid to rest.

We watched the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and I was very impressed at the precision and honor displayed during the ceremony.


This is the grave of John F. Kennedy which also has the eternal flame burning ahead.
The Lincoln Memorial from the back.
Colorado--the 38th state in the union.
Along the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired a nation for generations to come. 
With Abraham Lincoln looking over his shoulder, MLK delivered his speech looking out to the crowd. Just a couple miles down the road, Obama gave his speech accepting the oath of the President of the United States.

Washington Monument
The city from 500 ft. atop the Washington Monument.
The White House
The grass was thrashed after the previous day's event. However, the clean-up crew did very well at picking up the trash and taking down the fences.
The Colorado Group:  top (left to right):  Mariah, Joe, Mitchell, Jenna, Brianna, Janet, Betsy; bottom:  Sarah, the great, Yuri, Nikki, Dominik, Louis, Rashida, Alicia; front: Nick, Joy
Abe Lincoln's Top Hat

It was such a privilege to go on this trip with The Academy's Wildcats. We saw many sights (many of which have changed my life). Washington, D.C. is an amazing city filled with the traditions of our nation. I can't wait to return in the future!