Hello, Falcons Fans! I'm bursting at the seams! I have so much to share with you!
As you probably know, Alicia D., Sabrina C., Shamea M. and I embarked on an incredible trip to Curacao to visit Military personnel stationed there last week. We're afforded many incredible opportunities here on AFC, and this can easily be added to the list. It was, hands down, one of the best experiences I've ever had.
We arrived in Curacao last Thursday night, where we joined Sandy Charboneau, CEO of ProTour Productions, who brought us on this amazing trip. We met our guides and hosts for the trip, Q and Julius. These two guys were the best — they truly looked after us and ensured that our visit to the base was one we'd never forget.
On Friday morning, we began a busy day. We arrived early to the base and began "rotations." These rotations consisted of spending time with various units — taking pictures and getting to know everyone a bit better.
While on these rotations, we got to step foot inside a giant Air Force plane (we even sat in the cockpit!), ride on the fire trucks (and spray the giant water cannons on the top and front of the truck), and meet all the incredible men and women who are serving our great country.
Needless to say, we had a blast!
As we finished up our rotations on base, we headed back to the hotel for a big farewell party for the Base commander, Col. Bell. This party was so much fun! We were treated to a performance of native dancers from Curacao and our very own Shamea even got to participate!
Speaking of Shamea, she also sang "Happy Birthday" to Col. Bell! I think it may have been the highlight of party — her voice is incredible! We followed up this fun party with a night of karaoke and spending some more time with everyone. It was a long, but wonderful, day!
Saturday was a bit more relaxed as we got to head to Porto Mari with Q and Julius, as well as a few others. This was easily the most beautiful beach I have ever seen!
We got to hang out, splash around and even snorkel! It was a great opportunity to better get to know the guys on base who had come with us. It's so fascinating hearing their stories — many have been stationed all over the world, including Iraq and Afghanistan, on multiple tours.
They've served in all capacities and are excited and happy to share their triumphs from their time abroad. It's a staunch reminder of the sacrifice these men and women make in the name of protecting us back home in the States.
We followed up our fun morning with a performance. We debuted a few of our new routines for 2011 and got a great response! It's incredibly rewarding to be able to provide some entertainment and fun for everyone.
We signed photo cards and calendars, and were able to leave a little piece of the Atlanta behind in Curacao. We ended the night by visiting those who were stationed overnight on base. It was so fun seeing their faces when we walked in — they were certainly surprised to see us! I think it shook up their night shift and gave them a smile.
Sunday came so fast. The tour flew by! We stopped by the base one last time to say our goodbyes. It's so hard to say "farewell" to people you feel a connection to! This trip was one of a lifetime and was inspiring beyond words.
Many of these men and women have left their families behind in order to be a part of something bigger than themselves. I have nothing but admiration and the utmost respect for those serving our Military and am so thrilled and blessed to have been a part of this very special tour to Curacao.
Alicia, Sabrina, Shamea and I want to say a gigantic thank you to Sandy Charboneau and ProTour Productions for taking us on this amazing trip. We also owe a major thank you to our coach, Chato Waters, for allowing us to have this incredible experience! Another big thank you to Q and Julius for being the best tour guides and hosts we could've asked for.
We also owe a debt of thanks to Col. Bell for allowing us to travel to Curacao and be a part of his final few days there! Of course, the biggest thank you goes to the men and women we met at the base in Curacao, serving our country! We are so happy and grateful to have met you and to have gotten to know you.
Make sure to check out our pictures, and find all four of us on Facebook and Twitter to hear more about our tour in Curacao!
Cheers!
Sara D.
