Today was challenge day. The challenge for today was named, "Wicked Witch Hunt." It consisted of three events: a resistance band run (10 minutes), five floors of parking garage steps (10 minutes), and a steep hill run (10 minutes). There was a physical separation between the events and we jogged to each event. It was about 39 degrees outside, so we knew that we were alive. It was a blast.
Our enrichment activity today was a seminar by two absolutely incredible American heroes. Fred Cherry (United States Air Force) and Porter Halyburton (United States Navy) were pilots and each was shot down, separately, during missions in Vietnam in 1965. Each were captured and remained Prisoners of War for seven and one-half years, each. They endured horrible conditions, abuse and outright torture throughout their captivity. They were joined together when the North Vietnamese mistakenly believed that Halyburton (a white pilot) and Cherry (a black senior ranking pilot) would not get along, due to racial tensions in the United States. The North Vietnamese were very wrong. Halyburton tended to and took care of Cherry, due to Cherry's extensive injuries sustained when he was shot down. Halyburton and Cherry formed a lifelong friendship and love for each other. They recounted their stories and talked about forgiveness and communication. Everyone of us were mesmerized and honored by their presence. It was impossible to leave that auditorium not being thankful for their sacrifice and for the lessons that they continue to provide to anyone who hears them. They were genuine, open and two of the most humble men that God has placed on this earth.
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