Sunday morning began with a major organization of boxes, distribution tables and a well-managed process of ensuring that the band members will look their best on Tuesday. The large hanger boxes with carefully packed uniforms, hat boxes and a wide assortment of accessories were lined up through the hallways of the hotel. Hand warmers, gloves and plumes were checked off for each of the students.
In short order, the work was finished and the bus of cadets and cheerleaders arrived to join the band buses for a planned city tour. It turned out to be a day of "re-planning"! On the way to the first stop, the FDR Memorial, the reality of ongoing road closures and diversions gave a hint of coming attractions. With quick decision making and some great driving, the city tour diverted along Embassy Row and Georgetown before heading out of D.C.
The rest of the day was spent across the bridge in Virginia! First stop was the Iwo Jima Memorial and the tour guides first pointed out the changing angle of the flag as the buses circles the monument.
Second stop was at the Air Force Memorial with its stunning three arcs depicting the maneuver often seen in air shows. The students tried hard to get pictures with the memorial in the background by lying and pointing their cameras up at their friends.
Others decided to pose with the statues in front of the plaques to "Integrity, Service and Excellence."
Lunch was at a large mall with a variety of food choices and lots of shopping opportunities. The latter part of the afternoon was spent at Arlington where the group had a special opportunity. The father of one of band member was once a soldier who guarded the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Since the tradition of guarding the tomb began, fewer than 600 individuals have qualified for this rigorous duty. An arrangement was made for the Punahou contingent to receive a special briefing on the history and the traditions of the Tomb from a current guardian. That was followed by the changing of the guard ceremony, and some of the students were permitted the honor of laying a wreath at the Tomb.
It was an emotional experience to end the day.
With a goal of a quiet evening, the entire group stopped at a Whole Foods Market in Arlington to select dinner and returned to D.C. to eat in the hotels. The day wasn't what was planned but offered another view of the Capitol area that was varied and interesting!