It was a special day at Arlington National Cemetery as our Girls Nation Senators visited the hallowed ground of this most revered national treasure…where those who have served our country…enlisted sailors to five star generals to Presidents … lie in rest among their comrades. On this very warm but beautiful day in our nation’s capitol, four senators were chosen to lay the memorial wreath on behalf of Girls Nation. We were all excited when members of the 3rd Regiment Old Guard invited the girls (I tagged along with the camera-Yippee!) into their Guard House where they spoke of the tradition of the Old Guard and showed them memorabilia of this very special team of men and women. Yes…we were told that women have been members of this regiment, but that currently none are on the roster. After a moving all-faith Ecumenical Service in the amphitheater, Cpl. John Baker of the Old Guard returned to answer questions about the history, mission and special commitment of this team. We stopped to pay respects at the grave of Audie Murphy, the most decorated veteran of WWII and learned more about Arlington’s historical significance to our country during the tram ride around the grounds. From common man to those well-known, all are heroes. Returning to home base, former American Legion lobbyist and congressional staff member Steve Robertson shared details about serving as a lobby activist on behalf of our veterans. Great questions were posed and young minds were engaged to consider how lobbyist actions make a difference in legislation. So far…so good…we’re off to a GREAT START and we know GREAT THINGS are about to happen for 98 amazing young women!
Trish Ward, Department of Kansas
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