Introducing 2nd Lieutenant John G. XXXX
(Last Name withheld to preserve the annonymity of the innocent who may be mentioned here - and me)
I was proud and honored to attend the commissioning ceremony (and pin the bar onto his left shoulder), this weekend, for my brother, John, who received his commission in the Kentucky Army National Guard on August 19, 2006 at the Kentucky State Capitol Building. Southern hospitality coupled with military formality is just my cup of tea, or shot of whiskey (whichever you prefer).

In addition to receiving his commission, John was awarded the Physical Fitness award for his class:

"Presented to the graduates who have attained the hightest composite score in several Army Physical Fitness Tests, which measure speed, strength and endurance."

Below are some pictures of the weekend's activities:

Friday, we attended a briefing by CPT Bobbie J. Mayes, while the Sr. Class Candidates rehearsed the ceremony. We were promised a chance to "smoke" the candidates, but alas, we had to leave early. John's wife, Angela assured me that she saw CPT Mayes "smoking" John for us.

Dang, that was probably the only chance I'd ever have to make him do push-ups. Oh well. Maybe some day, if he receives a promotion (do they do that to commissioned officers?).
To the left, John receives his diploma.

Below, he poses with his family: Angela, Elijah, Gabriel, Joseph and Grace Ann.(missing: daughter, Hayley):

After the ceremony, there was a brief reception held on the lawn of the Kentucky Capitol Building. That evening, the newly commissioned officers, official party, and their families attended the "dining in." Unfortunately for you all, the videotape from that event is highly classified. If I could, I would show it to you (believe me!).


Below, is a picture of John and his beautiful wife, Angela on their way out.



For those of you wondering, I (the intrepid aunt) spent the evening with the nephews, neice and a dog. The videotape from that event is also classified ;)