An Amazing Career

Vacations are wonderful and time with family even more precious.  But playing catch up with email, blogs, etc. when you get home takes forever!  I'm not sure how long it's going to take me, but I think it's going to be awhile since I'm trying to clean out some computer files at the same time. 

So this will be a short post.  Just wanted to say we are home and enjoyed Mike's celebration immensely.  Here are some of my favorite pics.

Thursday night was the retirement banquet

It was a combination of good natured roasting and accolades. He received many amazing gifts and he liked his quilt!

And said "I promised myself I would NOT get emotional".

We had four generations together...

Granddaughter Kelley Ann, my mother, Marie, Mike and me

Me, Mike and Tom

Me, Mike and his dad, Art

Step-mom, Maggie, Mike and his dad, Art

Love this pic of Mike and his daughter, Kelley who is going to make him a grandfather in January.

Son Martin, daughter Kelley, Mike and wife Lindy

Son Greg wasn't able to attend as he is preparing to deploy to Afghanistan

Friday was the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony

Last day in uniform..headed to the parade field

It was a gorgeous day and very emotional to see the troops lining the field

Last time leading the brigade....

  

After the ceremony, Mike and Lindy with their kids

And his final award.. a SECOND Legion of Merit!!!

 

The end of a distinguished career and the beginning of a new adventure.  Congratulations, Mike!  We love you so very much!