We checked into our hotel in Rapid City, then drove to Mt. Rushmore. The lateness of the day and the lingering smoke from the Idaho and western forest fires, gives the monument a slightly different look. Because it was late in the evening when we arrived, we decided to stay for the lighting of the monument. The National Park Service has a great presentation before lighting. The presentation includes the presenting of the colors by all veterans in the audience. When the flags are retired at the end of the lighting ceremony, each veteran is asked to introduce themselves (name, state, and branch of service). There were well over 100 veterans. It was very impressive and humbling. The Audience gave these veterans a rousing ovation. Today we leave Rapid City, travel across South Dakota, and into Albert Lea, Minnesota. This will be a long day of travel. The landscape of South Dakota eastward from Rapid City is muc...