Photography by John Michael

What a week! It was great and energizing to deliver/send out the calendars – “The Old Guard on Parade – 2009″

I was a guest at the Military Order of World Wars (MOWW) where I met some very interesting people – historic in my opinion. The calendar and work I do to promote the military was very well received.

I missed the event of the Veterans’ Administration honoring Ross Perot. He’s a true patriot and has done and continues to do a lot to help those who defend the United States. Hats off Ross! Oops, I meant Mr. Perot.

I began my year with a bigger Facebook presence and have quickly found a fine network of friends there. Many I knew from years ago, but many more from exploring common interests and work. One of which I actually had the honor of meeting this week while I was in Washington DC. He has a quite tall mission of representing the US Army to the American People. I spent sometime showing him the work I’ve done over the years and presented him with some personalized heraldry cards. I was then presented my first challenge coin for the year!

WOW!

What an honor! Thanks Colonel!!!

My shutter finger was getting itchy since I’d not taken any photos this year, so I arranged to rendezvous on Saturday with a friend who for Christmas received a new camera. We were to explore Arlington National Cemetery – especially the section where they laid the thousands of wreaths. As the day turned from “possible snow” to “liquid sunshine,” I sensed he wasn’t showing up. Off to the cemetery I went and from the warm and very dry confines of my vehicle I captured several photos of the solemnity cast in the weather’s aura.