Graduation At Last!!

It was Friday, it was a bit chilly and damp, but still a nice morning.  We got up and went to the base to get our seats by 6 am.  We wanted to make sure we had good seats near where Zac's flight would be standing.

We sat for about 3 hours I think.  Someone made a Starbucks run for breakfast and we just talked, waiting nervously for the Graduates to arrive.

As the stands filled I was able to meet families of other men in Zac's flight and we shared stories from the last 8 weeks.

Finally, off in the distance, we could see the flights marching in for the ceremony.

Marching onto the Parade Field

Row, upon row, upon row of men and women in uniform.  Marching in step, with a purpose.  You could feel the level of excitement, anticipation and pride in the stands among the families and friends who had gathered to watch the ceremony.

As the ceremony began a hush fell over those gathered as we stood and listened as the National Anthem was played and all the new Airman stood at attention with a crisp salute to our nations flag.

We then got to watch as all those new Airman marched along the stands, in review.

Flights passing in review.

As his flight passed by I was so excited, I could find him in the formation!  This would make it so much easier to find him after the ceremony.  I felt such pride!!

Finally, we were getting close to the end of the ceremony.  All the flights marched forward as one.  They all recited their oath, and then in one voice recited the Airman's Creed.  The crowd sat in silent wonder as the words echoed off the nearby buildings.  Their voices grew in conviction and and had everyone close to tears as they reached the end.  Calling out in unison the last line... "WE WILL NOT FAIL!"

Immediately following the training instructors marched off the field and the families were allowed to go find their Airman and release them from formation.

I ran to the spot that I knew Zac would be standing and gave him another, massive hug and told him how incredibly proud I am of him.

A much anticipated hug after Graduation.

We enjoyed a nice, leisurely weekend where he didn't have any obligation (except being back to his dorm on time).  I was so thankful to finally have some time with my amazing husband.

I am so thankful that God has brought us to this point in our lives.  It has been quite a journey so far.  There have been difficult times, lonely times, times of utter relief when we have realized that yet again HE has provided for us, and certainly times of great joy.

I can't wait to continue this journey with the man that God has brought into my life, who has worked so hard, and who continues to follow the call of God even into places we could have never imagined.

My Husband and I after the Ceremony