Giffords makes return to Washington for ceremony

[Playinghardball]

Source: Associated Press - MSNBC



WASHINGTON — Looking thrilled to be among friends and colleagues, Democratic Rep. Gabrielle Giffords returned to Washington on Thursday to attend a Navy retirement ceremony for her husband, former astronaut Mark Kelly.

The visit marks the Arizona congresswoman's second trip to the nation's capital since she was shot in the head last January while meeting with constituents in Tucson. About 30 people, including Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, greeted her and Kelly with a standing ovation as they entered the Secretary of War suite at the Eisenhower Executive Building next to the White House. Giffords walked slowly and with a noticeable limp, but she looked overjoyed to see some of her fellow lawmakers again.

Vice President Joe Biden emceed the ceremony, which included awarding Kelly two of the military's highest awards. Biden had a little trouble pinning the Legion of Merit on Kelly and blamed it on the dim lighting, but Giffords stepped up and had no trouble whatsoever pinning the Distinguished Flying Cross on her husband.

"Gabby did it better than I did," Biden said as the audience laughed and applauded.






Read more: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44806989/ns/politics-capitol_hill/?gt1=43001

[monmouth]

1. Gabby is starting to put some weight back on. She looks wonderful..n/t

[ljm2002]

2. It is heartening to see that she is recovering so well...

...but as we all know, there is still a long road ahead. The fact is, her life has been forever altered by this event. Nevertheless, her strong spirit shines through. You go, Gabby! And congratulations to you too, Mark, on your well-deserved awards! May you and Gabby have a long and happy life ahead!

[Tutankhamun]

3. That story about the pin just made my day!

I was also glad she's really starting to look like her old self. Those two photos say a lot. Keep it up, Gabby!

[Twinguard]

4. She's looking well.

I remember the day of the rampage, I got the news during my boys' birthday party. It's amazing that she has come so far so quickly.

Go Gabby Go! :hug:

[russspeakeasy]

5. I would like to excuse myself from the gushing over the return

of a "sometimes democrat"...Carry on without me, I'm sure it will be a fine affair. Compare her votes to Blance Lincoln's and let me know if you see much of a difference..