As many of you know about 9 weeks ago we sent our 18 year old son off to BMT (Basic Military Training) in San Antonio, Tx.
Last Wednesday we made the journey down to Texas with my parents and 2 of Drew's siblings.
The above picture shows us waiting patiently anxiously for the airman's run which took place at 8 a.m.
I can't even describe the emotions as these young men and women jogged their 1.5 miles all wearing black P.O.W shirts (shirts were in honor of those who served as P.O.W.'s)
The small flag represents the squadron and flight
Yes, that is Drew. Spotted his dad but TOTALLY missed the 2.5' x 4' banner the rest of us were holding!! Guess sometimes it does pay to be tall!
This was the Coin Ceremony that the Air Force holds. 490 young men and women stood on this pavement to receive their coin.
All Airmen received their coin and then recited the Air Force Creed.
Oh, my! Talk about emotional. Hearing that creed said by 490 men and women and ending in the final words I WILL NOT FAIL! I do believe we all needed a kleenex.
After 8.5 weeks we "tapped" Drew out of his stance and gave great big hugs!!
Day 2 was Graduation day. Due to the weather (rain) the parade was cancelled. We were all disappointed as it is quite the site to see and hear. Instead, each squadron had their own ceremony underneath the dorms.
Drew is the 3rd guy in.
All but one of the family members and if she could have been there she would have.
Thank goodness for text messages and phones with cameras!!
Congratulations Airman Bellairs! You made it through!
We are very proud of you and all you have accomplished!
We love you!
Lackland AFB holds these graduations EVERY weekend. Just think about that. Hundreds of young men and women willing to make a commitment and serve our country.
It has certainly put a new perspective on things for me. I can not tell you how many people came up to Drew and shook his hand as we were walking around San Antonio.
The next time you see someone in a military uniform please be sure and tell them, "thank you" for serving our country.
If it were not for them and those before them we wouldn't have the freedoms we do today.
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! Oh memories, 12 years ago that was myself there, waiting to get my arms around my son.... he was 19 when he joined he is now 30 and has served for 12 years.... He is stationed at Offutt AFB in Nebraska and has all intentions of retiring in 8 years.... Thank your son for sure, because I thank mine everyday for the couragous job these men and women do for us.....
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Rhonda in Ohio
I'm teary eyed just reading your story.......God Bless him! Linda
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