Accompanied by a dozen (see photo site) or so Harley Davidson Police Motorcycles, sirens wailing, the Roswell and Fayetteville Georgia Honor Flight/Air Groups arrived at the World War II Memorial and of course Senator Dole was there to greet them.I am now by his reckoning the “best photographer in the country” and I think he’s the “best Senator in the galaxy.” Nice to be recognized much less complimented by Senator Dole and my admiration for him grows daily. He’s unstoppable and I guess I can’t stop photographing until he stops shaking hands so I think I’m in deep trouble. The guy does not quit and he’s funny. He is capable of the most ironic humor at his own expense and is at his wittiest when he’s with his brothers-in-arms. In 2004 just before the Memorial opened up, he invited all the Senators and Congressman who were WWII veterans down to the Mall for lunch. It was quite an experience to sit out in the sun with the nation’s most prominent law makers while they told tales…

Senators Johnny Isakson and Saxby Chambliss of Georgia were on hand to greet the veterans. It’s interesting to note how many of the veterans know these politicians and in many cases, helped them get elected. The Memorial seems to be “home ground” for all. Children, grandchildren and WWII vets. School children ask to shake their hands. A teacher had her class greeting the vets because she said she wanted them to “know history” at which point a Vet declared he “wasn’t history yet.” There are people who come down on their lunch hour walk just to say hello. The place is teaming with life. This is “Police Week” and thousands of policeman are in town to honor their fallen. I got a great shot of three Minnesota policeman posing perfectly with the waterfall and Lincoln behind them.

And while talk is cheap, I want to call for a round of applause for Diane Sinclair, a volunteer who’s there often before the tents, supervises lunch and is among the last to leave.

Finally, no day could end without the “chick magnet” shot. “Hap” Chandler a trustee with the “Mighty 8th Air Force Museum” found himself surrounded by women. Not a bad day in the life of a Georgia soldier.

Jewel of the Mall: World War II Memorial is a 120 page full color book on the WWII Memorial.