There are good ships and wood ships,

Ships that sail the seas,

But the best ships are friendships,

May they always be!

I had the enormous honor of photographing the retirement ceremony for Lieutenant Commander Wiechert earlier this month!  These ceremonies are always so special and always get me.  The Wiechert Family is leaving the Navy after 30 years of service.  WOW.  I did not know this sweet family before the ceremony but I still loved hearing all of the stories from friends and family.  It’s easy to see how this family has touched so many lives throughout Ben’s service.  Colleagues offered kind words and reflected on their time spent with him.  Ben’s brother gave a touching tribute and some pretty funny stories of their times together.  I loved how Ben spent his time to speak thanking family and friends that had supported them over the years.  His oldest daughter read a story of how God created the Navy Wife.  It’s time like this I’m glad I can raise my camera to cover my face!  Not a dry eye!!

The ceremony also had plenty of wonderful traditions.  My favorite is always the folding of the flag and the reading of Old Glory.  It is such a POWERFUL moment.  It’s a poignant remembrance of what our flag stands for and a humble reminder of those who serve to defend it at home and abroad.  The precision and the reverence reflect the respect these men and woman have for the flag and our country.  It’s an honor to witness and a truly humbling experience.

Thank you so much, Wiechert Family, not only for allowing me to be there with you on this very special day but for all of your sacrifice in serving our country!  It was such a great pleasure to meet you and your wonderful family.  Here’s to a happy and relaxing retirement!!

~ Maggie

Old Glory

I am the flag of the United States of America
My name is Old Glory.

I have fought every battle of every war for more than 200 years…
Gettysburg, Shilo, Appomatox, San Juan Hill, Manila Bay, Pearl Harbor, Guadalcanal, Leyte Gulf, Anzio, Midway, Normandy, Okinawa, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, The Persian Gulf, Bonsnia, Afghanistan,
and a score of places long forgotten by all but those who were with me.

I quickly re-stood my ground on top of the rubble of the World Trade Center and re-established my position draped over the smoking ruins of the Pentagon.

But for those who were there with me…

I was there!

I led my Sailors and Marines.
I followed them.
I watched over them…
They loved me.

I was on a small hill in Iwo Jima.
I was dirty, battle-worn and tired,
but my soldiers cheered me,
and I was proud.

I am proud.
My name is Old Glory.

Long may I wave.
Dear God . . . Long may I wave!