The Colonel Retired

I mentioned in a previous post that my dad retired from the military last week. It was a special time for him as He has given so much of his time, energy, and passion towards serving our country! I am thankful the family was able to be together for this celebration!

 My dad opted for an informal luncheon rather than a formal ceremony.  He received many special awards and an American flag.  Even though it was an informal ceremony, it was still very formal how they pass the American flag.  It was cool to watch

 My mom even received a couple certificates

 Notice this picture below and what is sitting in all of our laps.  After the more formal award portion, several people got up to give speeches and gifts to my dad (kind of felt like a rehearsal dinner) and then he gave his closing remarks.  After his remarks he gave my mom, sister, and I all a bouquet of roses!  And here in this picture he is handing G a gift card to a sporting good store!  It's kind of nice to receive a gift on someone else's big day! Can you guess why he gave us pink?  Think Phi Mu ladies! Can you tell he is the father of 2 daughters?  Way to go dad on remembering our sorority color.
 And just so you know, I carried those roses on 2 flights before getting them safely in a vase in my apt!  It was quite the challenge, but I was up for it.  They now sit beautifully on my dresser! 

It was a great luncheon and a special time to hear and be a part of my dad's career.  He had several military buddies fly in as well as family friends come for the day. It was a great time all around!  

And now my parents begin a new chapter, as they will live in the same house full-time for the first time in 7 years and my dad will begin a new career.  

My dad has been in the military since I was a baby. I really haven't known any different. Yet as his time as a soldier comes to a close I am thankful that this was the path that God led him down. The Lord has used him in pretty cool ways throughout his career! 

Thanks DAD for your service to our country!