Andy Anderson Tuesday evening

Enjoying an evening meal with his family and friends in the "Little Ethiopia" district, Anderson offered a few words to describe the day: "Amazing, stellar, inspiring, emotional..." he said. "Very emotional."

He said he felt "privileged and blessed" to be there and thanked the people of Columbus County who, even from his childhood, nurtured him and guided him on the path he is on to have been able to be in that great city, in this great nation, on this great day.

He talked of meeting several men from France who traveled to the U.S. for this event, and noted that it was not unusual to see foreign visitors at what one could deem an American event. Not only was there a mix of people from different countries and ethnic backgrounds, but everyone was friendly and helpful to each other.

"It was amazing - truly amazing," he said. Well, that's all nice for a day, but will it last?

"I think there's a seed that's been planted," Anderson said. "People are leaving this place with more than a dream, they're leaving with a purpose."