Posted on 06/07/2004 6:58:24 PM PDT by ambrose
I was at the Reagan Library earlier today to pay my final respects to one the greatest Presidents in our history — certainly the greatest of the 20th Century.
Due to the overwhelming number of well-wishers, people are required to park at Moorpark College, and are then bused over to the library. I arrived earlier today, when it seemed to be its most crowded. While the lines were long, it didn't really feel like the wait was that bad, due to the feeling of good-will amongst the crowd. Everyone was orderly and behaved, and quietly and politely waited in line. There was no pushing, shoving, bumping, or any of that other nonsense that is typically associated with large crowds.
At the library itself, the President's casket is surrounded by an honor guard, and the citizens are afforded the opportunity to briefly (very briefly) pay their final respects. I felt an overwhelming feeling of awe and love seeing this great man lie before me for this one last time. It is really hard to express how I felt, so that's the best summation of it.
The total time from arrival to Moorpark College, waiting in line for the bus, the ride to the library, and return to Moorpark College, was about three hours. I understand that things are moving considerably faster now.
At the Moorpark College parking lot is the Freeper RV Bob J and diotima brought. Unfortunately, some pressing business wouldn't allow me to stay very long, but it was nice to meet fellow Freepers who are also mourning the passing of a legend.
Bottom line: I would HIGHLY recommend that my fellow Freepers go if they are able to. This is the passing of a legend. A man who may have saved humanity from nuclear destruction, and gave hope, inspiration and freedom to millions. There will never be another like him. Ever.
Your impressions?
Thanks Ambrose.
Thanks for the report. Those of us who can't go to either the state or national viewings, enjoy reading from those who can.
Prairie
Thanks for your report. For those of us who cannot attend these reports mean alot.
'Welcome.
Can't say the mod appreciates the report. Got dumped to chat where no one will read it.
Thanks for the update. Any idea of numbers?
I had heard that about 10,000 had come by 2pmis (viewing began at 12pm)
That's great.
You're lucky you were able to go. I'll have to pay my homage later after he's been laid to rest.
even THIS was dumped into Chat.
I'm cursed.
They are saying that the wait is three and a half hours now just to get on the bus.
Wow. I thought things were easing up when I left. Then again, I left mid-day...
The other thing worth noting is the Ronald Reagan Freeway (118) is virtually a parking lot right now... total waiting time for someone driving there right now might be 5-6 hours!
People LOVE the Gipper!
Gee, I guess the LA Times head counters were just a little off...
Easily solved ... Thank you for the report Ambrose
Ping to y'all
The traffic and crowds are reported to be larger than ever yet I'm hoping that the later we arrive the shorter the wait.
Ambrose said: "I felt an overwhelming feeling of awe and love seeing this great man lie before me for this one last time. It is really hard to express how I felt, so that's the best summation of it."
The cameras are catching the faces of citizens as they pay final respects to President Reagan.
Ambrose, your words depict well the feelings written all over the faces of so many as they respectfully pass by our great President Ronald W. Reagan.
Thanks for the ping, Mo. Wish I could be there. But it's great to know that so many people loved Reagan so much.
Where are you coming from? It might be best to avoid coming in via the 118 from Los Angeles. There also backroad ways, I believe. Use mapquest or something similar to plot a course.
Great idea about Mapquest. Thanks.
Yes it is ... he was such a good man that loved our country so
Thank you very much for the report... I'm on the East Coast but was intensely curious what the procedure was and the difficulty encountered for the people paying their respects right now.
I'm jealous that you were able to do so.
Thanks again!
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