It's finally the big day- and you've MADE IT! It will be a day you will remember for a very long time. Your friends and family will be there as you march back to the barracks, either to "ship out" once again to AIT (Advanced Individual Training) or to head back home (at last). It will also be the last day you will ever see many of your battles again. It is, for this reason, bittersweet.
Throughout the weeks you have spent together, you have developed a kind of affection for many of these people. You will keep in touch, however, with the ones who really matter. These are the people who were there for you in your hottest, most despairing hour. Sometimes just knowing they were suffering with you was enough. Other times they offered a word of encouragement. Whatever they did, you will likely miss them once you leave.
I mention this because you will probably not think much about leaving, in your excitement to move on. You will be glad, however, that you took the time to reflect on the moment and say goodbye to as many of your battles as you can. They share a part, irrevocably, in who you have become. For this, you will never quite forget them, probably not even when you are old.
The graduation photographs below were graciously provided by PV2 Nadia Nelson. PV2 Nelson was also a member of B 2/47, 4th PLT. Thanks "battle"!
