Visiting Derek, Part 3: Graduation

Finally! A chance to blog about Derek's graduation from basic training- the whole reason for our trip to Georgia to begin with! I am determined to finally get this done before it's Jackson's turn to graduate from high school.

The graduation was a the new Infantry Museum located right outside the post. It was a beautiful location and the weather was great! Jackson and I anxiously awaited to see our soldier!

The ceremony really was so cool. It wasn't just a graduation. It started out with the band playing a variety of music and that was very entertaining-- especially the Rocky theme song.

Then there was a presentation about the soldiers throughout our country's history, showcasing the different uniforms and weapons the soldiers would have worn and used in each of the wars we've fought.

Next, was a presentation about the infantry, which had some great visual effects! I really learned quite a bit. During today's wars, our Army is equipped with great technology to aid in many of the missions. However, during any mission, it is up to the infantry alone during the last 100 yards. All soldiers are trained in the last 100 yards during basic training, though the soldiers who are specifically infantrymen will undergo more specific training.

(pardon my lack of technical terms... I will make sure to update the wording upon hearing from my Army friends. I won't be able to talk with Derek until tomorrow evening, and like I said, I really wanted to get this done!)

This is one of the two infantry squads(?) coming up from behind the field, amidst the smoke from the cool visual effects, in the Flying V formation, much like the one the Mighty Ducks use to win the championship.

Each position of the formation carries a different weapon, each soldier having a specific responsibility.

 And then finally it was time to present our soldiers. Two companies graduated that day, both Bravo and Delta. Derek was a part of Delta Company, 1st platoon.

 This is 1st platoon-- Derek is in the second row from the right, 3rd man back. They are aligned according to height with the tallest in front, so it's kinda tough to actually tell its him.

Some awards were presented, followed by the hundreds of soldiers reciting the Warriors creed (video here). It was really neat to watch. Then our soldiers marched by!

That was basically the conclusion of the ceremony and then the field became a place of chaos while loved ones all went out to find their soldiers!

Words can't really describe the amount of pride I felt watching my husband graduate that day. Less than 1% of the United States population will volunteer to enlist and make it through basic training-- furthermore, these soldiers volunteered while our nation is at war. I have been a proud wife since day one because of the loyalty, discipline, and integrity that Derek beholds. But none of that even compares to the sense of pride that comes knowing that Derek worked so hard during the 10 weeks prior to that day earning the title of American Soldier. Stripped of all privileges, he crawled through mud, slept on the ground, ran miles upon miles, completed obstacle courses, among the many other unpleasant tasks that were required of him to earn a warrior status. Surpassing all expectations, he completed this challenge. And I am so honored to be his wife.