I have been part of the Army family for my entire life. While there has been sacrifice, the opportunities presented by the Army are difficult to measure. So let me start by thanking my mom and dad. Dad is a retired MSG and Vietnam Veteran. He remained in the Army through the difficult times following Vietnam and thanks to him and those like him; the nation learned a valuable lesson. Today, we are routinely thanked for our service instead of hated for it. I’m grateful to Mom and Dad for taking the assignment in Germany and extending so I could finish my senior year of High School. I imagine I was too young and stupid to appreciate the financial sacrifices they made that allowed me to travel throughout Europe and participate in V-Day celebrations in France and competitions in Spain. Those high school years laid the foundation for my military career. Mom, Dad, I love you and I can never thank you enough for the wisdom, patience and love you’ve shared with me.
My success over the past twenty years has everything to do with those I worked with. As a brand new lieutenant, I couldn’t have asked for a better platoon sergeant then Ken Ravenel. He knew how to motivate soldiers, he knew how to develop NCOs and he knew how to keep a brand new, know-it-all, second lieutenant out of trouble.
I have had the honor of serving with Army Civilians. What an amazing group of professionals; Hardworking and honest and forever respectful of the soldiers they serve - there are far too many to name but without their contributions, I would have failed many times over. So to them I also owe a big thank you.
Another group I need to thank is the support contractors. As any Acquisition Officer here in Huntsville will tell you, it’s often their hard work for which we get the credit. Their honest concern for the soldier and dedicated service makes them an important part of our Army family. (And I’m not just saying that because I will be one soon!)
Now, the hard part – About 22 ½ years ago, I met a girl who would change the course of my life forever. It took a year and a half before our interest turned romantic, but in that time we became best friends and 22 ½ years and six kids later that’s still true. Sweetheart, thank you for your support of me and the confidence you have in me. I am a better man because of you. Thank you for holding things together at home through deployments, training and TDYs. Thank you for your love for our nation and never showing resentment for the time apart. I’m not sure you knew what you were getting yourself into when you agreed to be my wife but you have risen to meet every challenge. I love you and am only ready for this next adventure because you will be by my side.
Rebekah, Amanda, Sariah, Hannah, Marissa and Liam: I’m pretty sure you’ve never entirely understood what I’ve done each day I’ve left for work. However, you have always shown me support. You’ve honored my commitment by your understanding at missed birthdays, holidays and performances. You’ve stepped up and helped Mom at home when I’ve been away. You’ve helped each other through difficult times. Most importantly, you’ve made life worth living and reminded me just how Blessed my life is. I am so proud of you all and immensely grateful to the Lord for trusting me with your care. I love you and am looking forward to seeing what life has in store for each of you.
In conclusion, I wanted to address the future of the Army sitting in the back of the auditorium. Thank you for choosing this honored profession and serving our nation. Take the time to enjoy every assignment both professionally and personally. No matter how long your Army career is you will be better for it. If you’re anything like me you’ll be a little embarrassed when someone thanks you for your service. I have never quite known how to respond. But, finally I know what to say. It has been my honor.
Lastly, I’ve been all I can be, even an Army of One and now I depart Army Strong! Thank you all again and may God Bless the United States Army.
4 comments:
It has been my pleasure (well, not that I've enjoyed late hours, deployments, etc...), but, it has definitely been my pleasure to be your wife for all these years! I am very blessed, and do not know how lucky I am to have found you and fallen in love with you. It has been quite a life! I'm glad I was able to share this journey with you! Love you!!!
I can see now why so many tears were shed. Congrats on your retirement and thank you and your family for the sacrfices that you all suffered to make our country a better place.
This is great! Cuts right to the heart. What a blessing, trial, and challenge the military life can be for active-duty, family members, all who are affected by it. Congratulations on your retirement! The after-military life is weird, but fun too! :)
Beautifully done. Congratulations!
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