The Indiana Pacemates are once again on the road in support of American Troops. This time they have made their way to the Pacific Northwest to visit with military personnel at Fort Lewis Army Base and McChord Air Force Base. Joined by Coach Michelle, follow the travels of Jessica, Tamara, Shea and Sarrah through their blog and photo gallery.
Sunday, March 11 at 11:33am
Submitted by Jessica
What an amazing way to top off my 5th season with the Indiana Pacers. Our trip to Seattle was by far one of the most humbling experiences I've had the opportunity to be apart of. From the autograph signing to the conversations held with those that serve and their families, it was a great feeling knowing, that even if for just that one day, we were able to put a smile on their face.
At one point in time during our trip I began to get emotional as the reality of things set in. I've heard stories, watched movies, and read books about those men and women that serve to protect our country but it's so much more that what I thought it was. It's truly amazing what these men and woman do for us and our country. Words can't express how unbelievably grateful I am for what they do and the short time I was able to spend with those that came out to see the Indiana Pacemates--what an honor to be in their presence.
Being an Indiana Pacemate is so much more than dancing, from time to time we have the wonderful opportunity of doing something such as this, and giving back in our own way. Far too often we forget the things that happen outside of our own reality...next time you see a man or a woman in uniform or run into someone who serves or served at one time, be sure to thank them.
Saturday, March 10 at 10:12pm
Submitted by Shea
Today has been a long day. We woke up at 6, ate breakfast, visited Pikes Place Market , two autograph signings and finished our day bowling with the troops. It feels nice to lay my head down. But for some reason I can't get Eddie and 4,000 other men and women deploying out of my head. I wonder what they are thinking and feeling right now or what the last few moments before they leave will be like?
This trip has changed my outlook on military life completely. I have always respected the men and women that fight for us but it's different being here. No movie, song or book could ever paint the picture like being here has for me. The bravery is breathtaking. The courage is empowering. The spirit of these men and women is admirable. Definetely something I will always remember. Not sure how many people would fight for the freedom of strangers risking their life while doing it. I know I couldn't.
The strength and courage of military men and women is remarkable and I can truly say I am proud and blessed to be an American. God bless you Eddie and every man and woman that has and will serve for us.
Saturday, March 10 at 9:46pm
Submitted by Tamara
Today was a busy but fun and exciting day! After taking a short tour of Pike's Plaza, which was AWESOME (In the words of our teammate Lisa), we headed back to base to sign autographs. First stop, McCord Air Force Base for an hour then a two hour signing session at Ft. Lewis Army Base. To our surprise we were plastered every where we turned. We had posters in the break room, we had a light up posters and a huge background poster behinds our signing table. They definitely showed us love and We felt the love!
We met some amazing people. One person in particular was a guy named Eddie. To our surprised he was being deployed to Iraq the next day. What an honor it was to meet a soldier who was about to leave for the safety of our well being. He had such a calm and ease attitude, like he was proud to serve his country. While we were honored but sad to hear that he was leaving the next day. I must say, it takes a strong person to except and embrace the fact they are going to Iraq. Thank you Eddie for all you do for our country!
Next we met a group of girl scouts which one by the name of Mackenzie sung an Adele song for us which was really good! After signing autographs it was time for some shopping!! I picked up some shoes, of course! while the rest of the girls picked up some clothing. After shopping we went bowling, which was the best part of my day. We bowled with a couple of fans who actually came out for us! It's nice to let loose and for people to see the other side of us. We had a blast with them. They went from being fans to like little brothers! Definitely won't forget them :) #PMtrooplove
Saturday, March 10 at 9:15pm
Submitted by Shea
Today was a day I will never forget. At our second signing for the day , Fort Lewis we met a man by the name of Eddie. After signing a photo card and wishing him a good day he informed us that in 24 hours he would be deploying to Iraq for the first time with 4,000 other troops. All of a sudden it hit me, that every day thousands of men and women fight for our freedom. I would be scared and nervous and he had a smile on his face. Makes me sad the little things in life we all take for granted while people are fighting for our freedom knowing there is a possibility they might not come home.
Saturday, March 10 at 8:54pm
Submitted by Sarrah
After a fulfilling visit at Pike's Place we drove to McChord Air Force Base. We signed posters and chatted with shoppers at the BX. We had a great time interacting with kids and the young at heart. One gentleman showed us his breakdancing moves and a 6 year old named Spencer tap danced for us. While we were there, we recharged with Starbucks coffee, Seattle's most famous coffee house. As we were leaving the BX employees suprised us with a goodie bag that included a t-shirt, purse, teddy bear, chocolate and lotion. It was so sweet and unexpected! Our first signing was a success and we left quickly to get to our next appearance.
Saturday, March 10 at 3:32pm
Submitted by Shea
One of the first things I noticed today were all the children. We met a little boy named Spencer that put a smile on our face from the minute we met him. He told us how to play basketball, wrestle and he even showed us how fast he could run. Afterwards we met a little girl named Makenzie that sang Rolling in the Deep by Adele for us. It was beautiful. Touched my heart how much they wanted to love on us. The babies reached for us, the toddlers crawled in our laps and the older children loved telling us about their favorite sports and subjects in school. The love and affection between the families was beautiful.
Saturday, March 10 at 10:44am
Submitted by Shea
Finally our first day in Seattle. After breakfast we loaded into the van and headed about an hour North to Pikes Place, Seattle's famous market. The bright colors of the vegetables and fruit popped from the street. The smell of spices and peppers were everywhere. Everyone wanted our attention. Who were we? Try this! Buy this! It was the perfect scene from a movie. The people were all friendly but you knew they were there to sell what they could for the day.
Very different occupation from that found in Indiana. Afterwards we visited the first Starbucks and shared a bowl of the famous Beechers macaroni and cheese.
Friday, March 9 at 8:12pm
Submitted by Shea
Our flights weren't too long. The second flight Sarrah was knocked out before we took off. I watched Slumdog Millionaire in between Michelle playing "guess this old school tune" with me. We arrived with sleepy eyes and hungry bellys. Tam and I laid and talked about our excitement for the next day before we dozed off.