Mt. Rushmore @ Night!

Last night, we ventured out to the monument again for their regular ceremony.  They do this every night at 9:00p.m.  It was a surprise to me, how many people came.  I just had NO idea how popular or sought out this ceremony was!  Indeed, it was worth going. 

A boy scout troop from Wisconsin came to lead the pledge, and then a Ranger gave a 10-15 minute talk about each President represented in the Monument.  She was fantastic.  Afterwards, as the sun was going down, (yep, here in South Dakota, it is not dark until 9:30!), they showed a 20 minute film, 'Freedom', which also focused on the 4 Presidents.  By the end of the film, it was totally dark, and Mt. Rushmore was glowing.  Truly a special moment.

The Ranger asked all past and present military to come onto the stage, so they could be recognized.  Immediately, people were clapping and cheering and whistling; giving thanks and appreciation for their sacrifice and service to our nation.  It was so exciting.  :)

As they stood on the stage, we all sang 'The Star-Spangled Banner.'  Then, the Wisconsin boy scouts lowered the American flag to 'Taps' on the bugle.  Just, chilling.....patriotically AWESOME!  :)
Can you tell how pumped I am??!!  Love it!!
Then, the crowd cheered and clapped again for several minutes as the service men and women left the stage and we were all dismissed.  I found myself, not wanting to leave, it was that good. 
This ceremony brings to mind all the freedom, we as Americans, possess, and many times take for granted.  We are blessed to live here, able to worship, work, and learn in such a beautiful land.  I am more thankful today, than I was yesterday, that is for sure!  :)


Blessings,
Steph