Meeting The President A Day To Remember For Some El Pasoans

As soon as President Obama walked off Air Force One, he started shaking hands and giving hugs to those who greeted him.

And for those who spent hours waiting for his arrival, it was a day to remember.

The president’s schedule in El Paso was tight.

But he made time to not only meet and greet but also sign some autographs.

Obama also came bearing gifts for several high ranking Fort Bliss soldiers – a presidential coin.

“It’s got the White House on one side and on the other side there’s the presidential emblem,” said Fort Bliss Maj. Gen. Dana Pittard.

The president also walked over to a group of civilians, Fort Bliss soldiers and young fans waiting to catch a glimpse.

“Not a lot of people can say they’ve met the President for the first time,” but 13-year-old Alexis Veliz from Horizon can.

Veliz said he had a great excuse for skipping school.

He not only got his Marine Corps flag, but also his cap autographed by the president.

“I asked him for the signature twice and he said don’t over-work me,” said Veliz.

Staff Sgt. Raymond Borrego also had a moment with the Commander in Chief.

“I spent just over six years stationed in Hawaii and he’s from Hawaii, I shot a quick aloha to him and he recognized that,” Borrego said. “We talked really quick about where he was from where I was from and parted with a high five. “

A high five from the president he won’t soon forget.