Any former Military aboard here - My 30th retirement anniversary and the USMC Ball

[Sempervee1]

I’m on the verge of soon attending the local 250th anniversary celebration of the Marine Corps at the annual birthday ball, a deeply meaningful event that also marks my 30-year retirement from active duty. It’s hard to believe how special this occasion has become for me. In preparation, I've been working and dieting hard to fit into my Marine Corps dress blues, the very uniform I received while on recruiting duty as a young  married staff sergeant back in 1980. As I pull out my well-worn cap, I can’t help but notice the cracks that time has left behind, a reflection of the years I’ve spent serving. I’ll also take a moment to dust off my chest full of ribbons, each one a reminder of cherished memories, though I admit I may not recall all of them.

I know I’ll need to shave off my facial hair to meet uniform regulations, but I’m at peace with that. Every time I think of the comrades who have faded away, it stirs a mix of emotions, yet I am grateful to still be standing, even if for just a little longer. 

I’ll be attending with my girlfriend, who, while not very familiar with military traditions, has excitedly chosen a beautiful ball gown for the evening. I’ve also invited my golf and poker playing friend who's a retired Army Sergeant Major in the  Army Reserve, and I know we will all have a great time together.  It's going to be an expensive outing but that is OK, I never did buy myself that 18 year old scotch for my 50th anniversary of graduating boot camp.

It’s a poignant realization that I retired before many of the active-duty attendees weren't even born. As I prepare for the cake-cutting ceremony, it strikes me that I might be one of the oldest Marines present. This thought fills me with humility and gratitude for the journey I’ve had and the experiences that have shaped me.

Edited Wednesday at 08:10 PM by Sempervee1

[footgoose]

US Army. '69-'71.

Congratulations to the Corps. Enjoy the occasion Marine. You deserve every bit of it. Thanks for sharing and thank you for your service to our country.  

[docc]

7 hours ago, Sempervee1 said:

This thought fills me with humility and gratitude for the journey I’ve had and the experiences that have shaped me.

That statement is a poetic, and poignant, expression that informs our lives (whatever we have experienced and endured).

Semper Fidelis, indeed, @Sempervee1

 

[GuzziMoto]

No military service here, beyond my father fighting in WW2. I was not cut from that cloth. But full respect and gratitude for your service. Have a good time.

[Pressureangle]

I am a Unicorn who was honored to be a SME and trainer to Marines at Camp Bastion (Leatherneck) in 2009. 
I spent most of my 3 years over there with Army. I was disheartened to find that the Army fell short of the professionalism I expected to see, and humbled to find by how much the USMC exceeded it. I was in the unique position to experience most of the things civilians hear about but can't understand. Semper Fi. 
Enjoy the evening knowing how special that camaraderie is.