I attended a military promotion ceremony today to honor a very special friend who is serving his country as an Air Commando in the United States Air Force Special Operations Command.  The ceremony was brief but conducted with the formality, customs, and fashion commensurate with promoting the service and self-sacrifices this young warrior has given in the name of protecting the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. 

The ceremony was attended by virtually every member of his family to include his new bride, adult son, sister, and parents - many of whom had traveled great distances to witness the occasion of his promotion.  There were also close friends, teammates, co-workers and, of course, his commanding officer. 

The commander spoke highly of this warrior's achievements and poignantly spoke about how his promotion was not so much about his accomplishments but an affirmation of his potential.  The achievements were impressive indeed and served to remind me of the high caliber of men and women we truly have who willingly stand watch over the heartbeat of America as she goes about her daily life.  I was particularly impressed because, having worked alongside this young warrior on occasion throughout the world, I had no idea of the depth and breadth of his talents, experience and accomplishments. 

As I watched family members ceremoniously pin on his new rank of Major, I witnessed the pride exude from each one, unique in their own expressive manner.  I watched as an amazing transformation took place in the demeanor and appearance of this humble warrior as the new rank symbols assumed their resting place upon his shoulders.  Pride welled up within me that a select few truly understand.  I've been many places over the years with this warrior and have watched him grow into the leader he is today.  To be in the company of great men is an honor and this was certainly one of those occasions.

When he was given the opportunity to speak and "say a few words" as they say, he spoke with a new voice.  His message was not atypical of the warrior spirit and ethos.  I say that because he started by thanking those whom had arrived to share in the occasion and to his commander for presiding over the ceremony as any humble warrior would.  I watched as he reflected on the moment and was slightly overcome by emotion as he tried to articulate his own gratitude to "the sheer amount of heroes" he had the honor to serve alongside over the years, especially in the special operations community.  He touted the command as the best in the Air Force, and among the most quiet and humble branches of the services - and just as it should be considering he is a member who personifies those qualities.

We thank you for your service and will always remember and honor your personal sacrifices to safeguard our Amercian values and keep us safe from the tyrannies of oppression!  Congratulations on your most deserving promotion to Major.

Godspeed!

- G -