We arrived at the White House on July 1st. The date was rescheduled because of the Federal Holiday.
               About the White House Greeting:
I was given instructions to meet on Lafayette Square on the North side in front of the White House. For those of you who have never been to the White House security is second to none.
I got there a few minutes early. Picture this: A black man with this huge yellow hat, a yellow vest, yellow arm bands and yellow ankle bands with a backpack who is walking back and forth in front of the White House.
I did not know what was unfolding before my eyes. Two snipers in all black with their faces covered were on the roof top of the White House with a huge scope and some pretty big guns.
Then out of nowhere appeared what I thought was a “simple” tourist. He asked “are you the guy who walked here from South Carolina?” Yes, was my response. We started to chit chat and it lasted for a few minutes.
I was relieved when representatives from Congressman Jeff Duncan, Gowdy, Mulvaney and Senator Graham’s office showed up, Then all of a sudden several guys dressed in black cargo shorts, black baseball-like caps, black sunglasses, these really cool polo shirts with a black and gold logo on the chest area with the words that said “secret service.” Oh yeah, did I mention they were “strapped?” REALLY BIG GUNS!
FYI, Do not go to Washington, D.C. with the intention of playing jokes or trying to make the news because you thought it would be cool to act like you have a weapon of some sort. DON’T DO IT!!
These men and women will eliminate any type of threat whatsoever. I’m sorry for getting off track but I am only trying to paint this picture for you.
We were greeted by the secret service and I had to show some form of ID. On behalf of the President, they told me they appreciate what we are doing to support our military and their families through the USO. There were some other things said but that’s the surprise I have for certain individuals.
I could not get anything on video or take photos because of security reasons so you will have to believe me on this.
I was presented with a US Flag that was flown over the Capitol in my honor. This was a complete surprise to me and I received some messages from some very important people. There are some things that are meant for me to share with my family.
We will also start working on a meet and greet on Capitol Hill. This meet and greet will include a tour of the Capitol, Library of Congress and the White House.
It would not have been fitting for me to experience anything else without sharing with the ones who supported us throughout this entire journey. We will be sending out formal invitations soon so be on the lookout for it ok.
                                     Next year
We will continue to lift the spirits of our troops and their families until everyone comes home.
The walk next year will start in New York at Ground Zero to the White House.
              THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT!
