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What a day, we flew into Washington DC on Tuesday and yesterday had a full, a very full day of meetings with Senators and Congressmen.
They were all very supportive and encouraging and all are to use their own media staff to promote the ride access the US.
It was an a amazing day finishing with a meeting with one of Tom's longest standing friends, Senator Lyndsey Graham.
Readers of the blog and followers of the Charity will know that the catalyst that has made the event a reality has come about due to the injuries and subsequent life saving treatment that Tom was able to receive in the US hospital in Germany. He was 'medi vacced' from Lourdes, France to Germany via the US Air Force.
This was arranged by an Air Force Major who Tom will always speak about in hushed tones, such is the depth of feeling and gratitude Tom has for that move to Germany and the subsequent treatment received.
This was all made possible by the diligent work done by an Air Force Major, David Tatum.
You can only imagine the emotions that must have run through Tom's mind to be re-united with the very same Major, now based in Washington.
During the day we criss-crossed the inner corridors and tunnels that around the Capitol Building and the surrounding buildings to meet the senators and congressmen. All were universally helpful and gracious in giving of their time and assistance in what for all of them is a busy schedule. They are acutely aware of the challenges faced by the families and veterans themselves when returning home after the fighting, for them, is over.
Congressman Joe Wilson
Congressman Jeff Duncan
What an audience! I expect it helped propel Tom along double speed! Great pics too Bruce. Would love to know what congressman Duncan Hunter was describing?
ReplyDeleteBruce it is so exciting to read about and see the great day you had in Washington - your portraits are stunning, and you can see the admiration and emotion on the politicans' faces as they listen to Tom's story. Hope you both rest up over the weekend in preparation for the main event on Monday. We are thinking of you all, and you and the other support guys (and gal!) are real heroes. Give Tom a big hug from me. We wish we could be with you on your adventure, and you know we will be in spirit. Maggie
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