The Flight Deck

On Friday, August 26th, I had the honor of attending a Navy Boot Camp, Pass-In-Review graduation ceremony in Great Lakes, Illinois.  If you’ve never been to one I highly recommend it.  The place just oozes  joy and patriotism.  

Graduation Ceremony, Great Lakes 

There were 13 Divisions, with 952 Sailors, one of whom was mine. My son David decided he was going to join the military when he was 8 years old.  It’s been a long trip, and his mind changed a few times about just what to do, but he’s in and happy.  Next stop, Nuclear Power School in Goose Creek , South Carolina.

New Sailor, New Sailor’s Dad and New Sailor’s Biggest Fan, PO2 Big Sister.

There’s a year and a half or so of tough schooling ahead for our fine young man, but he’s up to the challenge.  When he’s done with school his first duty preference is to be a Nuclear Machinist Mate on Fast Attack Submarines.  Long time from now, but all fingers and toes are crossed.

Attending David’s graduation were his Father; Idaho Joe, Mother,;Mrs. Idaho Joe, Sister; Po2 Big Sister, Girlfriend, Paternal Grandfather and Maternal Grandmother and two cousins.  Since any graduate is only allowed four confirmed guests plus any active duty military, three of the family had to wait outside until the hall was filled.  Luckily everyone got in and witnessed our wonderful son and grandson’s triumph.

An interesting note is David left for Boot Camp just before his 17th Birthday this year.  His Grandfather, also David, joined the Navy 60 years earlier, at the age of 17,  and was a Machinist Mate on a Destroyer during the Korean War.  And August 26th was his Grandparents 50th wedding Anniversary, may my blessed Mother Rest in Peace.

David flew to Charleston on Saturday the 27th, just behind Hurricane Irene. He’s settled in and started his first classes.  The kid has done us proud.