D.C. Meetings
Jun 15 2009
After giving up Space A travel, we have been spending our time taking the kids around DC. What a great place to educate the kids — from the Capitol to the Smithsonians to the monuments. We’ve studied everything from how a bill becomes law to how ants colonize to how President Roosevelt wanted the Declaration of Independence emphasized at the Jefferson Memorial to help rally America during World War II.
Two events though were especially fun. First, we met with the MOAA staff responsible for making sure this blog is available. We also were able to spend time chatting with Vice Adm. Ryan, the head of MOAA. I have always been impressed with the information from MOAA, and now my wife and I are equally impressed with the staff. It was obvious though that the people at MOAA enjoy their jobs and enjoy helping the members (funny how one leads to the other, eh), and I’m sure this starts from the top down. As I look for a job on this journey, I hope to find an atmosphere like we saw at MOAA.
Our second was also a lot of fun — we got to meet a U.S. Senator. Senator, John Thune (R-S.D.) took time to welcome us to D.C. and chat with us in his office. What a nice, personable guy! He really made all of us feel welcome, particularly my kids.
Relevant to MOAA members, the senator’s interest in our military members was evident (and welcome) in his questions to my wife about her experience working with and participating in the military medical system; and, to me about life as a military dependent. I can see how he defeated Daschle four years ago — Senator Thune is sharp and has a great presence. South Dakotans made a great choice.
My daughter did ask the senator if he was going to run for President, but “Wahl Whispers” can only report a denial (with a smile) from the senator to this question. We’ll keep an eye on him, though.
Senator Thune’s office arranged for a tour of the Capitol and the White House for us … but that story will come later.
Rest assured, your MOAA is working hard for you, as are your senators (if Senator Thune is any example).
What great experiences you are all having it is wonderful. You are going to hate to finally settle down in one place.