pictures from game 1 of 2011 WS

I just wanted to post the pictures that I took from my trip to game 1.  It was probably one of the most awesome experiences of my entire life (second only to my marriage).  I will post them after the jump.

Here we go (captions below each pic)

I saw this on the back of the scoreboard while waiting in line outside before the game.

A shot of the scoreboard from the other side before the game started.

My beer, my sweet taco bell VIP lanyard, and myself.

The troops lined up and ready to unfurl Old Glory.

The ribbon board during the introductions of the players.

Albert (in line) and Holliday (running) being introduced.

The flag halfway unfurled.

The complete flag during the National Anthem.  I thought that the whole experience (National Anthem and flag ceremony) was pretty thrilling.

Michelle Obama, Jill Biden, and a veteran whose name I can't remember.

Both teams and the full flag during the opening festivities.

Adam Wainwright, Bruce Sutter, and Bob Gibson throwing out the ceremonial first pitch.

Secret Service snipers on the roof of Busch III (over left field).

More snipers (this time over home plate).

Carpenter into the delivery of the FIRST PITCH!!!

Motte in to close it out!

The Cardinals win!!! (team streaming out on the field following final out).

Post game interviews.

My frozen cousin (left) and me.

A better shot of the World Series field decorations and the continued post game interviews.

A picture of the scoreboard following a Big Red W for the Weasey company.

And so ends the photo journey of my pilgrimage to Baseball Heaven during the 2011 World Series.  I still can't believe that I actually went!