Yes it is awe inspiring to be in the presence of ....
I have been in the audience once with a MoH'r. General Schwartzkopf was doing a political speech for Bush on BB62 (USS New Jersey Battleship).
The amazing thing is that with all the security the General had, he was second fiddle when the blue ribbon came up the gang plank.
My daughter who was in High School NJROTC at the time was on the gang plank with the honor guard and had the opportunity for a face to face salute. Although at the time she was more impressed with shaking the Generals hand.
And I am fortunate enough to have one MoH autograph in my "History of Submarines" book.
Although this pales in comparsion with doing a real meet and greet.
Another link for Crandall
http://www.xav8er.com/