Forward. That’s what President Obama wants to do now. He says that that is what he’s been doing since he took
office in 2008.
I am Katie, 18 years old and a National Guard Military Youth from Ohio. As a Backpack Journalist, I was credentialed as Press to attend a grassroots Obama for President event in Columbus. Part of my assignment was to write a short article about my experience, as this was my first “political rally”. It was unbelievable; one that I won’t soon forget.
The crowd, estimated at 4000, was so riled up. They even had a chant that went, “Fire it up, Ready to go!”
My Backpack Journalist partner was Miles; also an Ohio Military Youth and we had the opportunity to interview those in the crowd that waited to hear the President.
Dr. Amanda Flowers, a clinical psychologist from Columbus, spoke to us of her father serving in the Army and having fought in Vietnam. She openly shared her opinion and support of military families and their kids and the soldier’s health. I asked her about the recent rise in PTSD and soldiers committing suicide. She commented: “there are different symptoms to look out for (see link here) and suggested that one should encourage the individual that it is ok to get help. There is nothing wrong with asking for help!”
Before the President made it to the stage, there were several other speakers including our former Governor, Mr. Strickland and Mr.Gase, the President of UAW. Now for the main event, Mr.Gase announces President Obama.
The crowd instantly goes crazy. He stops to shake people’s hands as he’s walking to the platform. He waits for the crowd to calm down before he begins his speech.
President Obama starts to talk about how we can change for the greater good for the American people. He told everyone what he wants to happen for kids and their education. He also feels woman should have equal pay for the same jobs that are performed by men. He wants the war in Afghanistan to end by 2014 and bring the troops home. He wants more jobs to stay here in the US and not a foreign country.
President Obama gave a well thought out speech that kept everyone focused on him and had many jumping up and down and shouting “four more years!”
What a first experience I had, and I look forward now to more as A Backpack Journalist, an Ohio National Guard Military Youth.