While part of the herd continued the journey north, Team D.C. had an adventure of its own today. Don’t worry, Day 5 will post tomorrow so you won’t miss out!
For the past year, Mia has been participating in a service project making blankets for Vietnam veterans. Today was the culmination of that effort as she and her classmates traveled into Washington, D.C., to present the blankets to the veterans they had spent months serving.
Sam had the privilege of serving as a chaperone and witnessing the impact firsthand.
The students formed an honor tunnel, lining the path as the veterans arrived. They clapped, cheered, and celebrated each one as they walked through. Watching those middle schoolers enthusiastically honor these men and women was powerful, and it made me reflect on how differently our military members are received today compared to many Vietnam veterans when they returned home.
One veteran quietly said, “I don’t deserve this, but I am so appreciative of it.”
In that moment, it was hard not to get emotional.
With tears in their eyes and smiles on their faces, these veterans accepted not only the blankets but also the gratitude, respect, and recognition that many of them should have received decades ago.
The blankets provided warmth, but the appreciation meant even more.
As if one meaningful event wasn’t enough for a single day, Mia spent the afternoon volunteering at the elementary school she and her siblings attended. It was a chance to give back to a community that has meant so much to our family over the years.
Then, to close out the day, she took the stage for her final band concert as a South County Middle School Mustang.
A year-long service project, a day of volunteering, and the final notes of middle school band.
Not a bad way to spend a day.
As we prepare for the next chapter, we’re grateful for opportunities like these that remind us that while moves and adventures take us to new places, service and community are what make those places feel like home.
The Davies Herd 
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