Retirement

I was not prepared for the emotion of a Navy retirement ceremony. I always get choked up when I see men cry and this was no different. As my brother’s buddies and shipmates, John and Casey, paid tribute to him through tears I could see he was also struggling. It was emotional as the awards were given, especially those presented to his wife and sons who have sacrificed in relative anonymity for the career of "their Sailor". The reading of "The Watch" sent a new wave of emotion. And finally, my brother’s retirement speech and its' accompanying emotion as a he faced the reality of being "piped ashore" for the final time. I don’t know how anyone can get through such an ordeal without breaking down. Thinking back on the ceremony I wonder what range of emotions my brother went through. As his wife and sons were honored for their sacrifice – which made his career possible. I imagine the struggle of mentioning shipmates past and present, without whom he would never have succeeded. Even though that day brought a torrent of emotion and some unintelligible words, it’s alright. After all, the tears said what’s really in my brother, and his shipmates, hearts......the love the Navy. And I, for one, am thankful for their sacrifice.