While SFC Chuck Heard, Mark's partner from four years in 1st Brigade, 3d Infantry Division, and two combat tours, informs Mark that his boot laces are untied, Chaplain (Brigadier General) Don Rutherford quizzes Joel about the haircut standards in the Army ROTC program at Clemson University. That's how any professional event begins.
As things see to be getting out of control, SFC Chuck Heard wonders why he volunteered to be the Master of Ceremonies.
And Chaplain Rutherford considers why it might have been a mistake to come to this ceremony from DC - on his way to Korea. Seems like a long way around the barn.
Mark is worried most of all, wondering what lies CH Rutherford is dreaming up . . .
Hmmm, I doubt it happened like that!
The "Velcro" ceremony. No pins, no blood, no fun.
Philip is next: this is Mandy's very first "formation." Welcome to the team, Mandy.
"Oh, heck, I'm just proud of you!"
Those hard stripes look real good on you Philip. More to come, real soon.
The wife, and soon-to-be wife, are calculating the increased monthly pay.
The Whitlocks, who came from DC; Pete Brzezinksi, up from Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia; Judy from Utah and Mark from Germany. Lots of miles traveled for this event.
Good friends.
Soul mates, united by shared joy and hardship.
Jay West, just moved from Germany to Ft. Jackson, Philip, CH Don Rutherford, Mark, Bobby and Pete.
This is a motley crew, for sure.
Scott, US Air Force, Mark, Jim (former Air Force), Gary and Philip
Four Brothers.
