Retirement Party
Posted By Bouhammer on November 16, 2009
This last Saturday night, I long with family and friends celebrated my retirement from the Army with one awesome party. Thanks to my wonderful wife, PH, CP, and DG who all pitched in to help her they put one one great event. I had people from all different aspects of my life there. I had family, neighbors, past soldiers, current soldiers, my last 3 commanders, war buddies, parents of my soldiers, etc. etc. Thanks to several other conflicting events, a size-able number of people could not attend, however many of them sent me messages of support and regret for not being there.
When I got up to talk at the end, I think I went a little long but I was in a groove and I was a tad buzzed which helped me lose time. For those reading this that heard my speech, this may be a surprise to you but I left something out. For as much as the night seemed to be about me, I really felt it was about all of you who were there and those that wanted to but could not be there. I am not sure if that makes sense, but as I sat at the table looking out at all the people who took the time and expense to be there, I kept thinking this is about all of those who I have come to know through 22+ years. Friends, family, soldiers who reported to me, soldiers that were my peers, family members of my soldiers, my superiors, co-workers, neighbors, milbloggers….for everyone of you all contributed to me being me. I could not have developed the skills I did in the military and in life had it not been for those that I was around presenting me topics, issues, problems; all of which shaped and molded my work ethic and style.
For all that I spoke about, that small piece was left out. I wanted to be sure and get that out there. I am truly, truly blessed to have so many friends and family. I don’t know why I am so lucky to know so many great people, but then again I don’t know why I am so lucky to have a women as wonderful as my wife who has stood by me for 18+ years.
Last but not least, being back in the Armory where I started as a First Sergeant and where I was the last First Sergeant to serve there was awesome. There could have been no better place to host the get-together. The memories there all came back to me as I walk the halls and the old offices, platoon rooms, etc. I hope that any who are reading this whom once served in the Tonowanda armory will be back there this Sunday, Nov 22nd, as a documentary crew will be on hand to hear us tell the history and story of this old home of ours.
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This post was mentioned on Twitter by bouhammer: New blog posting, Retirement Party – http://ow.ly/CJ4c #sot #Afghanistan #militarymon…
Congratulations! Thank you for serving. I saw the photos on Facebook and it looked like a great event. Regards to your wife and family!
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