Reflections on History

I am so proud of our country and I am proud to have President Barack Obama as my Commander-In-Chief. This election of our first African American President has given me a renewed spirit of optimism for our country and a sense that the dream of Martin Luther King Jr. has moved closer to fulfillment. U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Stan Coleman)

Fulfilling a dream

Published Jan. 30, 2009
By Patrice Starks
94th Casualty Affairs

DOBBINS AIR RESRVE BASE, Ga -- On January 20, 2009, I braved the frigid temperatures of Washington D. C. to be a part of history and witness the inauguration of the first African American President of the United States of America, along with my husband, daughter, son-in-law and three grandchildren.

The experience was awesome and inspiring. To be among millions of people who were all thrilled to be a part of this historical moment. There was an amazing feeling of unity as so many different people came together in one place to take part in this historic day.

Everyone in the crowd was friendly, kind and courteous. There was a common bond of excitement and pride among the crowd of people from the train ride in on the crowded Metrorail through the streets packed with people walking, making their way to the National Mall to take their place in history.

From the moment Barack Obama won the Democratic nomination, we knew that we would attend the Inauguration if he won the election. I am so proud of our country and I am proud to have President Barack Obama as my Commander-In-Chief.

This election of our first African American President has given me a renewed spirit of optimism for our country and a sense that the dream of Martin Luther King Jr. has moved closer to fulfillment.