So we left our hotel at 5:30am and headed to Ft. Sill, on direct orders form our leaders. Once we arrived on base we fell into formation asap and began PT (physical training). Drill Sergeants and all. *I must insert a disclaimer here. We did not do PT all out. They cut it back for us, but it was very similar to how actual training would be* The Army was then kind enough to let us enjoy "chow" with them. This term really just refers to their eating times, but we were able to join them for breakfast. We then were able to take a tour of Ft. Sill. Man. I must they have some really cool stuff there. Personally, my favorite thing was the EST. That doesn't mean Eastern Standard Time. I'm 99% sure it means Engagement Skills Training, but I could be lying. No promises here. It is essentially a giant first person shooter video game, but instead of a controller, they had M16s with compressed air to simulate the shooting action and recoil. These guns had lasers that worked very similar to laser tag. We then had turkeys run across the screen as we attempted to shoot them. Talk about adventurous.
Our next stop was a multi-billion facility that is used to simulate actual battle grounds. It was fascinating to see how the military learns tactics, prepares for battles, and uses their resources to create some of America's finest. I believe I can speak on behalf of the students when I say that I gained a new level of respect for the members of our nations military.
Lunch was provided by Wayne's Drive Inn. Joe Abshere, the owner and member of LOK Class XXVII, gave us a little history on a classic located in Lawton. Wayne's has been around since 1950 and is a staple if you are visiting Lawton, Oklahoma. They have 2 locations, The Original and a newer location that opened in 2006. Except the original is "like the third location but close enough."
The 2 hour bus ride then led us to Chickasaw Culture Center in Sulphur to learn about the Native American tribe of the Chickasaws. Not only were we greeted by royalty (the Chickasaw Princess was there to welcome us) but we also were able to participate in some of their cultural activities. These included a tribal friendship dance and stickball. Stickball was one of the most interesting parts, in my opinion, because I love sports. There's more to it than meets the eye though. It's very similar to lacrosse, except girls use their hands. They also don't have any rules that apply to them. Guys aren't allowed to hit, tackle, or anything of the sort to the girls, yet they are allowed to do anything to the guys. We witnessed this first hand as our very own Kurt Pasque was viscously taken out by the Chickasaw Princess. NFL Greatest Hits kind of taken out. It was remarkable to see.
Once we left, we had another 2 and a half hour drive to the wonderful city of Tulsa for the evening. Dinner was served by El Guapo's, which was fantastic Mexican. From there it was off to our hotel to finally finish off the day. Only as soon as we got there, everyone went straight to the rooftop pool. Followed by a stop in the Presidential Suite where our hospitality room was located. The piano on the top floor soon became a jukebox as several students showed off their talents and we sang together for the next hour before it was off to bed.
The joy exuding from the students as they hangout together is contagious. Everyone is having an incredible time. Laughs are constant. Smiles are nonstop. Naps were a must. We are learning about ourselves, others, and Oklahoma on this whirlwind trip that is only gaining momentum.
Until next time,
Andy Stewart
Student, Optimist, aspiring Catalyst
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