Update to those who seemed to be interested.
I got started driving early to try to get the space ahead of the arrival of the “Church” group.
People were pleased to see my patriotic clothing, hat and bright sign with ...I SUPPORT OUR TROOPS. I had attached American flags and big bright stars. Walkers constantly thanked me for being there...horns tooted and thumbs were “UP”.
Later lurker Terry arrived to add to the now 2-woman FReep.
This was a HUGE funeral procession. Local police cars, motorcycles and K-9 Unit were joined by dozens of unmarked cars with flashers behind the grill and windshield. There were 3 or more “Loooong” limos as well as the funeral directors cars. Patriot Guard Riders were there in large (25?) numbers as well as friends and family cars (50?) When you add the Arlington Security and all the escort and traffic control cars this became more than a mile long procession. They were joined at the grave site by the Presidents band, a large Honor Guard and dozens of uniformed Marines.
The “Hate” group did not appear and I was glad.
We had lots of pictures taken and I offered my sign to folks for their own family pictures. I think their trip will be a good memory and this would not have been true if the HATERS had appeared.
Thanks for showing interest in this event and the threat of the group to make the event harder for the family.
I hope to see each of you at a future event!
The President's band?
Could it be, could it possibly be... Barack Obama called the HATERS up and told them to bug off?
Thank you 3DJoy and Lurker Terry for making it to Arlington.
See 3D's Post No. 34
FROM AN EMAIL FROM TERRY:
It went fine. Joyce and I saw each other right away and stood together. She is such a sweet lady. The Westboro crazies never showed up, so the Patriot Guard was exactly right--they send press releases just to mess with people.
The procession was really moving. It was really long, which was great. There were a huge number of Patriot Guard riders, and they saluted us. We got a lot of waves and thumbs up. Various tourists stopped by to say hello and tell us they supported the troops too.
After the procession passed, Joyce and I stayed for until everyone was in the gates. We saw at least one other group, probably an elderly veteran who died. Then she sent into the cemetery to visit her husband's grave.
Ron Kirby got caught up in some bad traffic and didn't get there until the procession had passed, poor guy. Joyce and I were the only ones there during the procession.) Ron felt really bad, so I stayed longer and we held our signs for an extra half hour or so. It was a shame; he brought a heavy flag plus his sign. The response was good.
Thanks to both 3D and Lurker Terry for their AARs. And yes, the people coming to Arlington really enjoy seeing your support.
Most know 3D but Lurker Terry and husband, Lurker Bryan spent the last 2 years or so with us at our Friday evening Walter Reed troop support rallies.
Thanks for the update