The Obamas exit Air Force One in Berlin, Germany on Tuesday (June 18) just minutes after their jet arrives at Tegel airport. The First Family is dressed in semi-formal wear as they meet photographers and officials who are delighted to see them. President Obama’s speech at the Brandenburg Gate is expected to serve as the highlight of his first presidential visit to Berlin.
Mr. Obama recently gave a heartfelt message to fathers in which he revealed his desire to have met and interacted with his dad during childhood. “I never really knew my own father. I was raised by a single mom and two wonderful grandparents who made incredible sacrifices for me,” said the Chief of Staff.
“There are single parents like my mom all across the country who do a heroic job raising kids. But I still wish I had a dad who was not only around but involved. Another role model to teach me what my mom did her best to instill. That’s why I try everyday to be, for Michelle and my girls, to be what my father was not for my mother and me.”
The President went on to discuss his experience as a father and public figure saying, “When I look back on my life, I won’t be thinking about any particular legislation I passed or policy I promoted. I’ll be thinking about Michelle and the journey we’ve been on together. I’ll be thinking about Sasha’s dance recitals and Malia’s tennis matches. About the conversations we’ve had and the quiet moments we’ve shared. I’ll be thinking about whether I did right my them, and whether they knew, everyday, just how much they were loved.”
Sasha and Malia are currently touring Europe with their parents, and have discovered interesting truths about their heritage since embarking on the journey. The girls recently wrapped up a trip to Ireland where they learned that their father’s roots include that of Irish descent.
Photos: RTE/ Marco Priske / Stiftung Denkmal
