Portrait of Ronald Reagan |
I thought that maybe I looked up to him because I was just a kid that didn't know any better. I knew nothing of politics at that age and I certainly didn't understand world affairs but I remember being inspired by him anytime he was on television and I knew that people paid a lot of attention to him. Thirty years later I still have the fond memories but I also have a better understanding of the world and I actually admire Reagan more today than I did as a child. Naturally when I realized that the Reagan Presidential Library was just a short drive from where I'm staying I knew we had to go.
Cars filled the parking lot the morning we arrived and it was obvious that the library was popular with those on summer vacation. Parents, children and retired couples filled the halls of the library to learn about Reagan's presidency and I imagine to reminisce to a certain extent. Reagan's Hollywood smile greeted us as we entered the library and like any story they start at the beginning. We got to see photos from his high school football days, heard stories of his family's immigration and of course we learned of his career in acting. They devoted a very small portion of the library to this period of his life however. I guess that makes sense considering this is a presidential library.
One room touches on the assassination attempt that nearly cost Reagan his life. Here we got to see the suit he wore on that day complete with bullet holes and incisions made by doctors as they cut the suit off of his body. Even his x-ray showing the lodged bullet are on display. Kinda leaves you feeling shocked but it is an important sidebar of his presidency.
We got to stand behind a teleprompter similar to the one he used on inauguration day. It gives you kind of an empowered feeling really. But can you imagine having to stand behind that podium when it really counted? That's pressure, baby.
Section of the Berlin Wall at the Reagan Presidential Library |
Air Force One 27000 |
Reagan's Oval Office |
The Reagan's Final Stop |
Brandan
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