What was your military retirement ceremony like?

CH (MAJ) William Beaver Honestly it was wonderful. I, like many, did not want to have one; I just wanted to fade away. I asked all of my General Officer mentors, and they all agreed I needed to have one. It was not really for me, it was for my family. I think it really mattered to them; really mattered. I am glad we did it, and am glad my mentor LTG David Quantock could be there. My son made an awesome video, that actually made me well up, that chronicled my 33 years in Army, my life before the Army, and our lives as an Army Family. Then, I had to get up and speak to packed auditorium, knowing it was my last time... that really hit me then... 33 years is long time.... and try and keep it together...

I was fortunate to retire while stationed in the Washington, DC area in June 1991. I retired with a group of a dozen or so NCO's and Officers from the DC area. The ceremony at Ft Myer, VA, was magnificent with an honor guard from the 3rd Infantry "Old Guard" and the the Army's Drum and Fife in Colonial uniforms. In addition to receiving our Retirement Certificates we also were presented a Certificate of Appreciation from the Commander-in-Chief. I felt proud and privileged to be so honored upon retiring.

I received my paperwork, checked out of all "S" shops, returned all gear, and went home. I served with Honor and Respect and chose to retire quietly.