Something unusual happened downtown yesterday, a parade. Parades are commonplace, but this was the first and so far only ceremony welcoming home our men and women in uniform now that our national adventure in Iraq is over. Whatever you think of President Bush's eruption into the land where there were no WMDs (and it leaves me shaking my head), Americans appreciate the risks and effort undertaken by our armed forces. What a difference from when I was a young man and our soldiers came home from Vietnam to be met with scorn.
Two guys dreamed this up over coffee just a few weeks ago. They started a Facebook page. Money and help poured in. Even MSNBC, the cable channel for left wing political rant in this country (you know, the one we watch - none of that Rupert Murdoch claptrap in this house) urged everyone to turn out. Thousands of people lined Market Street for the event. We will have more scenes over the next few days. Good video from NBC News here.
Two guys dreamed this up over coffee just a few weeks ago. They started a Facebook page. Money and help poured in. Even MSNBC, the cable channel for left wing political rant in this country (you know, the one we watch - none of that Rupert Murdoch claptrap in this house) urged everyone to turn out. Thousands of people lined Market Street for the event. We will have more scenes over the next few days. Good video from NBC News here.
Very good post, Bob, and right on the head about whether or not one agrees/ed with invasion of Iraq. Excellent portraits.
ReplyDeleteMarvelous photos and I agree with you comments about the need to honor those who served, regardless of one's feelings.
ReplyDeleteI,m glad they got a parade together Bob, what happened to the Vietnam soldiers was a disgrace. btw caught sight of the Arch in the video, it sure does pop up everywhere.
ReplyDeleteLots of fine colors too.
ReplyDeleteI don't think this'll ever happen when the French soldiers come back from Afghanistan...
ReplyDeleteThat eagle is a beauty.
Made me proud to be a St. Louisan. Love the first shot.
ReplyDeleteCertainly looks a colourful parade. Ours tend to be more low key affairs, but still important.
ReplyDeleteTo answer your question regarding Friday's post; the answer is yes, I used a GF1 with a 20mm pancake lens. You should see the one he took of me!
Your first photo is a great portrait. I'm glad that this parade was held, but I think I will stay away from the politics . . .
ReplyDeleteWhatever our feelings about the wars, we do honor our servicemen and women, many of whom served more than one tour of duty. The top portrait is just superb Bob. Love this whole series.
ReplyDeleteV
I was hoping you would cover this event. I heard about it on NPR.
ReplyDelete