What a great welcome the Palazzo Las Vegas just gave our wounded warriors from BAMC. They were flown up here today by Southwest Airways, given a police escort from the airport and then, well, it was hard to see because there was so much dust in the air my eyes got a bit blurry at times. They came through a line of cheering supporters that stretched from the entrance, through the huge reception area down a long hallway, through the casino and into a beautiful atrium where huge American flag hung suspended from the ceiling. As they arrived, you could tell our warriors weren’t sure what to expect. But as they walked through the warmth of the cheering crowd smiles began to break out and you could see them relax and begin to enjoy the moment. When everyone had finally arrived at the atrium, the welcome ceremony began. Spokesmen for all the sponsors of the event welcomed the troops and understanding the intolerance for long speeches, kindly kept their words to a minimum. Heartfelt, but short. Finally the troops and their families were told that they were the VIP guest of the Palazzo for the weekend and the red carpet was theirs. For 3 days and nights they are the guests of the hotel and are getting the treatment normally reserved for the high rollers the hotel fetes. I have to tell you the looks on the faces of these young men and women was reward enough. They have earned a treat like this. But I can’t say enough for everyone else involved too. I met the team from Omaha Steaks who are incredibly tied into supporting the troops. They donate and ship their great product to troops all over the world. The Southwest Airlines team was there, about as proud of helping as a group could be. And the Armed Forces Foundation should be proud of this celebration as well. It should be a great week … more to follow. ~McQ Twitter: @McQandO
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Posted
May 16 2012, 05:52 AM
by
BLACKFIVE