I love seeing genuinely touch moments, and last night I was witness to a heartfelt moment I'd like to share with you all. I was at the opening night of the Washington National Ballet's production of The Nutcracker, currently playing at the Warner Theatre, and prior to the start of the performance the artistic director, Septime Weber came out and made an announcement that brought a tear to everyone in the audience.
It seems that young Ms. Isabelle Johnston, age 7, was premiering on stage in her first performance with the ballet that night, and her father, Marine Lt. Col. Frank Johnston, was not in attendance on her big night because he is currently in Iraq, serving our country.
Lt. Col. Johnston contacted TWB and asked if there was any way they could tape the performance so that he would be able to watch the performance at some point. In response, TWB got in touch with NBC-4 and arranged to have the performance taped live, and then the footage is being transferred for world-wide broadcast on the pentagon channel so that our armed forces stationed around the globe can see Washington's patriotic take on the classic production(as well as enjoy Ms. Johnston's stage debut!).
As Mr. Weber made the announcement to the audience, he read a letter written by Lt. Col. Johnston:
"I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to see a new 'first' in the life of my daughter, Isabelle, while deployed overseas," says Lt. Col. Johnston. "Thank you, DC, for bringing a piece of America to me and my fellow service members deployed during the holidays. I will watch this show as a father but also as a representative for all the other fathers and mothers deployed overseas this Christmas season that will miss many other firsts — the first birth of a son or daughter, first steps of a newborn, the first tooth of a growing child. The price of duty and service to our country is indeed great, especially during the holidays. Thank you all, each and every one of you, for the incredible support you are providing to us overseas. It is reassuring to know America has not forgotten those deployed in harm's way."
Congratulations to young Ms. Johnston on her wonderful debut performance, Her family on their dedication and perseverance, and The Washington Ballet for helping a father enjoy a pivotal moment in his daughters life.
As a side note, thank you to Lt. Col. Frank Johnston for defending this great nation that we call home, our nation owes you the deepest gratitude for the sacrifices you make to keep our country safe.
~Jonathan Benya
Century 21 New Millennium Team Benya









