DC excitement

During a conversation about this trip one evening we were discussing different cities and the things we could do in each city. Justin mentioned that he would like the see the changing of the guard at Arlington. Jeff told him that groups can actually participate in a Wreath Laying Ceremony at Arlington. This really sparked Justin's interest; he really wanted to do this. I told him that we'd look into it and so with a little bit of research we found what we were looking for but we couldn't apply for this honor until June...they only take requests 1 year out. So we'd have to wait.

In the meantime I'm introduced to Major Bob at the Pentagon...what a hilarious guy!! He's a complete brainiac when it comes to history...never knew a history buff could have such a great sense of humor! We asked Bob tons of questions about DC and transportation and told him our ideas for the ceremony locations. Our guys really wanted to dip their toes in the Atlantic Ocean and to have a ceremony there on the beach. However, Bob threw an idea past us that was too good to pass up. We made a few phone calls and finally was able to discuss this option with Vince. Once we were able to answer all of his concerns he was on board. At this point we had just secured the first scout-led Flag Retirement Ceremony at Fort McHenry!! Our ceremony will be part of their annual Flag Day ceremony, parade of flags and fireworks. They usually have between 5,000-6,000 people in attendance. LOL!! You should've seen the adam's apples bobbing when we told the scouts this news!! They were VERY excited...this was a much better idea than our original beach idea. Thanks Major Bob!!!

Major Bob has also given us a few other great ideas - which at this point we are keeping a secret from the guys. You'll need to check out this blog while we're on our trip to see what Chuck has reserved for us!! Soooooo cool! Can't wait to see their faces when we pull up to it!!

Back to Arlington and the Wreath Laying Ceremony...
At the first of June we submitted our written request for 9:15 AM on June 14, 2010. Today we received confirmation that we got our request! We're doing the Wreath Ceremony on Flag Day in 2010!!! How cool is that??!!
At this point our scouts are scattered...one in CA, another working staff at scout camp and others are working...summer vacations, ya know. So I sent everyone a text message letting them know 'We got Arlington'!! the reactions were all about the same...'Sweet!' 'Holy cow are you serious?' and 'Yesss!'

We're all VERY excited!! This means that Flag Day in 2010 will be such an honor!!

Arlington perform the Wreath Laying Ceremony
Tour of the Pentagon - with a chance to meet Major Bob and shake his hand!
Flag Retirement Ceremony at Ft. McHenry
and ending the day with a big surprise!!

I can't wait to see what the guys want to do in the other cities!!