Another Day At a Military Base
Having finished a rejuvinating workout at the military base near my home, I emerged from the weight room to see a good number of troops in their dress blues. I asked when they began working out dressed like that, and was informed that they were gathering in the gym for their promotion ceremony. It's an interesting and insular community on base. Here at the gym, young men and women walk a little taller in their dress blues, displaying rows of ribbons that mark courage and honor. Today they add another stripe to their sleeves. Their wives, husbands, and children are with them to share in their accomplishment even as they also share in the sacrifice of service. Meanwhile, the thunderous roar of F-22 fighters shakes the ground and rattles the windows as our pilots hone their deadly skills. In the base exhange, families purchase the items they need, and retirees like me drink coffee, tell lies, jokes, and watch with a mixture of pride and nostalgia as the current generation of warriors get about the business of keeping the nation safe. Just another day at the base. Another day in a community that will do whatever it takes to defend your community.
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May '10
Re: Another Day At a Military Base
Promotion ceremonies are a great celebration of achievement, but they are also a recognition of potential to serve in the higher grade (as I am sure Dave will attest). I attended one yesterday, and will see another on Tuesday.
A few years ago when I was stationed at Lackland AFB (home of AF Basic Training), every Friday was BMT graduation. One could assured that if they went to the BX on Fridays, they would see many graduates walking with their families. I always made an effort to shake the hands of one or two graduates, talk about their career field assignment, and tell their parents that we were proud to have their child serving with us.
Promotions and Graduations are some of the best times on military bases....celebrations of achievement and potential.
Re: Another Day At a Military Base
Charles, years ago we had "NCO Appointment Ceremonies," to recognize airmen that were sewing on Non-Commissioned Officer rank, and the wing commander would be there to shake the hand of each new NCO. In 1989, I was invited to be the guest speaker at the ceremony, and I can still remember the anticipation in our new appointees' eyes. I saw the same expressions yesterday at the promotion ceremony. No matter how many times that scene plays out, the enthusiasm is contagious for me.