Posted on Dec 30, 2013
Most memorable "military event" or "ceremony?"
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As we're all aware the military is steeped in tradition, and probably among the most notable, remarkable, and visible of these traditions is of course the military ceremony... so, throughout the years what event stands-out most in your memory? It could've been a respectful or honorable detail, a special event or promotion, or maybe a defining moment like a graduation, commissioning, retirement, evening event (service ball, birthday celebration, etc.), or even a military wedding, reenlistment, community support event, colorguard, inauguration, parade, mess night, dining-in, dining-out, or any number of other events. Some communities have truly interesting histories, traditions, and ceremonies, so this should prove to be a fun and informative discussion, and we should all learn a-thing-or-two in the process; please feel free to share photos, links, videos, or anything needed to tell your story. Well, it's about that time, so pull-up a keyboard, and let's get this thing started; thank you for all that you do, and... see you all in the discussion threads!
Military Career
Military service
Honor
Selfless Service
Edited 10 y ago
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 105
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My reenlistment ceremony in 2004. It was the 60th anniversary of D-Day and I did it in Normandy American Cemetery, located near Omaha Beach.
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SSG (Join to see)
<p>If you ever get the chance to visit please do. I've managed to visit Omaha, Utah and Luxembourg. I think, a year after I retire, I'll do a road trip across Europe, from England to Tunisia visiting the cemeteries. With a side trip to Verdun since it's WWI.</p><p><br></p>
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MAJ Joseph Parker
SSG Tamar B: Well done! You honor all, especially the soldiers under the crosses behind you in the picture. Bet every one of them stood as you took your oath and saluted the flag when you finished, and their hearts were as full as ours are.
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I remember being placed on funeral detail for the first time driving across Georgia thinking to myself about the service member, would there be a lot of people present, what if I messed something up. I was so nervous with every fold, and prior to the presentation I hadn't even had the chance to see who the widow was. After folding the flag and marching to the widow I stepped down and in front of me was the saddest blue eyes I had ever seen. The widow's husband had served during the Korean War, a fact I learned after the funeral and upon return. Her face was filled with tears and for a moment I forgot where I was and all that was there was her and I. I felt as if I was looking at my own grandmother and immediately began to well up. It took every ounce of my being not to let go. I will never forget that duty or her kind words of gratitude when I handed her the colors.
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MAJ Joseph Parker
1SG Anthony R.: Thank you 1SG for writing down what was in your heart and what all vets feel but often can't express without fear of tears pouring out. Thank you for saying the words to the widow that are so hard to say without your voicing cracking. Sir, I salute you.
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Col (Join to see)
1SG Rink, these defining moments are those that are permanently etched in our memory, as a former ceremonial troop I can absolutely relate to your experience, and have a few of those "etchings" that will be with me for the rest of my days. A powerful, emotional, and truly humbling experience. Those few moments spent with the family in recognition of their loved one are deeply appreciated and IMHO among the most moving and truly worthwhile moments a service member can experience. Thank you for taking the time to honor this veteran and his family.
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