Pope Benedict XVI begins first U.S. tour

He's in for a little bit of a surprise. Those religious values that this country was founded on have gotten a little hazy as of lately.

A smiling Pope Benedict XVI arrived in the United States on Tuesday afternoon to start the six-day, two-city journey that will take him from the White House to the halls of the United Nations.

He's seeing all the sights, sort of, well, not really. Just two. But they're really nice buildings.

The papal plane, Shepherd 1, touched down at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland to cheers from a crowd of invited guests gathered for the event.

Shepard 1. There's something morally twisted about that. And would they have invited guests that wouldn't have applauded?

After he stepped off the plane, Benedict did not kiss the ground, as his predecessor, Pope John Paul II, often did during visits.

I don't blame him. Who knows where that tarmacs been.

The pontiff was greeted by President Bush, first lady Laura Bush and their daughter Jenna, each of whom shook his hand.

What no bear-hugs?

It was believed to be the first time an American president has greeted a world dignitary on arrival at Andrews.

Believed? Do our records not go far back enough? Exactly how long have we had an Andrews Air Force Base?

"It had the look and feel of a monumental and historic event," CNN's Brian Todd reported.

"But it tasted like Chinese food."