There's someplace I should be today, but I'm not. That would be this:
Ah, would that I should be the good father... and I would be such if I was there. Alas, I'm not. That said, I was in attendance at another change of command ceremony, one that arguably had more importance. Witness:
That pic is from the change o' command held back in July of 2010, when SN2 assumed command o' Navy Recruiting District Pittsburgh. And such a fine day it was. If I look like the proud papa, it's only because I WAS, Gentle Reader.
These sorts o' ceremonies are mostly about the incoming commander and less about the outgoing officer. I can say I was there for the one that really counted but that's mostly an excuse. My excuse revolves around the fact that I have to attend a family wedding in just over a week's time and the two events, occurring in such close proximity, forced me to choose. As for Buck... SN1... well, he's off in the UAE as we speak, so he has other obligations that preclude him from attending.
Now, that said... a military command is about much more than responsibility. Those who haven't served won't quite understand, those that have served know all too well... and there's no explaining to be had... you've either been there or you haven't. Sam, and Buck (SN1), have fulfilled (or are fulfilling, in the case of SN1, as we speak) their command responsibilities honorably and with great distinction. I'm most certainly proud of both boys and I'm sure their grandfather would be, as well. The Ol' Man... who retired from the Air Force as a Lt Colonel... and I never had the privilege or the responsibility of command but that doesn't mean we don't understand what's involved, because we do... or did.
So. Today I want to offer my personal BZ to Commander Samuel Pennington, USN for a job well done. Ya done good, m'boy, and I am SO proud of you. Fair winds and following seas as you move on to your next assignment in Washington, DC.
Ah, would that I should be the good father... and I would be such if I was there. Alas, I'm not. That said, I was in attendance at another change of command ceremony, one that arguably had more importance. Witness:
That pic is from the change o' command held back in July of 2010, when SN2 assumed command o' Navy Recruiting District Pittsburgh. And such a fine day it was. If I look like the proud papa, it's only because I WAS, Gentle Reader.
These sorts o' ceremonies are mostly about the incoming commander and less about the outgoing officer. I can say I was there for the one that really counted but that's mostly an excuse. My excuse revolves around the fact that I have to attend a family wedding in just over a week's time and the two events, occurring in such close proximity, forced me to choose. As for Buck... SN1... well, he's off in the UAE as we speak, so he has other obligations that preclude him from attending.
Now, that said... a military command is about much more than responsibility. Those who haven't served won't quite understand, those that have served know all too well... and there's no explaining to be had... you've either been there or you haven't. Sam, and Buck (SN1), have fulfilled (or are fulfilling, in the case of SN1, as we speak) their command responsibilities honorably and with great distinction. I'm most certainly proud of both boys and I'm sure their grandfather would be, as well. The Ol' Man... who retired from the Air Force as a Lt Colonel... and I never had the privilege or the responsibility of command but that doesn't mean we don't understand what's involved, because we do... or did.
So. Today I want to offer my personal BZ to Commander Samuel Pennington, USN for a job well done. Ya done good, m'boy, and I am SO proud of you. Fair winds and following seas as you move on to your next assignment in Washington, DC.
Your Ol' Man kinda resembles John Payne.
ReplyDeleteI had to google Mr. Payne but I see where you're coming from, Ivan.
DeleteSincerest congratulations to you and your son(s). As for never having had a command - what do you call Fatherhood? You done good, Buck.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Andy... you make a good point. But I was relieved of that command early on.
DeleteCongrats to CDR Sam on a job well done. He's going to DC? Perhaps the Five-sided Puzzle Palace? The Nuke is looking at an assignment to Crystal City with a follow on civvy job with Naval Reactors. If Sequestration doesn't kill the opportunity. Which it might. At any rate, small world.
ReplyDeleteThat picture of you and your parents is awesome. Classic forties photo, which I love by the way. Couldn't help noticing the look on your face though. The first thought that went through my head was, "Heh, Buck hasn't changed all THAT much!"
You have a good looking family Buck. At least the four generations or so that you've shared with us.
Sam will be working in the acquisitions directorate which I don't think is actually in the Pentagon, but at some other satellite location. I'm sure he'll spend quite a bit o' time in the Puzzle Palace, though. I had to google Crystal City, seein' as how I'm not that familiar with the area. But, yeah: small world.
DeleteThanks for the kind words about the fambly. I kinda lucked out in that space.
Congrats to both of you. It's always pleasant to leave command with a band playing and while not being bruised from kicks around the posterior. Best wishes on the new duties and responsibilities in DC.
ReplyDeleteThank ya, Sir!
DeleteAnd proud you should be. Thanks to both your boys, and to you, for your service.
ReplyDeleteThank ya, Ma'am.
DeleteThanks Dad! It was a good day... long time coming. I've been very lucky to have worked with so many fine men and women that supported me and the Navy in executing our mission.
ReplyDeleteAcquisitions should be interesting given the current economy and government.
Spoken like the ossifer and gentleman you are. ;-)
DeleteThanks Dad!
DeleteCongrats my friend!
ReplyDeleteThank ya, Glenn.
Delete