Major Harris Gets Pinned

The day a promotion finally arrives is pretty exciting in the Army life. Brian has been promoted five times before being promoted to major today. I was only able to pin his new rank on him two out of those five times and both of those were for the same rank!
For those who don't know, promotion to major puts you into an entirely new category in the Army. It means you are a field grade officer and in it for the long haul - a professional soldier.
Ever since he was a boy Brian wanted to be in the Army. He has shaped his career in some unusual ways that could have killed it early. But God has blessed him and us and we are so grateful for the opportunities we've had and the stories we've lived to tell.
Brian was given his oath of office by Lt. Col. Mike Demirjian, who Brian had the extreme pleasure of working under at 1/17 CAB at Fort Bragg. Mike has been a career mentor for Brian and these two men both have a reputation for speaking their minds when others would keep them shut. Brian was thrilled that circumstances worked out that Mike could be there for his ceremony.
I was also excited that the kids, little as they are, could be there to see their Daddy being promoted and applauded. They need to see how important his job is so they understand why they have to sacrifice so much. I also want them to understand just how blessed they are to have Brian for a Daddy!
It was a gorgeous day. The food was good. The kids behaved (though while Brian was giving his speech Maggie kept lifting her dress and flashing everyone. Hee hee). It was perfect.

 Lt. Col. Demirjian talking about Brian

Out with the old

In with the new

Oath of Office

I'm somewhat anxious but mostly hopeful for what this new chapter will bring for us. The Army is changing by the week and we're hanging on for dear life trying to finish strong!