Award Ceremony

The last week of school is filled with report cards, parties, the return of school supplies, and award ceremonies. This year it also included packing and moving, but that did not mean that I could miss out on the festivities.

This year Nate was our big award winner. In the Clark County School District they participate in a program called Accelerated Reading. The program tests the students reading comprehension level by allowing them to be tested on books that they have read that are within their reading level. Nate was recognized as being one of three students in his track to pass the most tests. He received three books and a book bag for his accomplishment. He also received a citizenship award and an A/B scholar award. Matt received the Grand Gladiator award and Danny received a citizenship award. At least I know my kids behave in school, even if they don't at home. Of course with great news like this, we had to show Dad at work.

Nate Becomes a Wolf

We had to make sure some things were accomplished before we left Vegas. One of which was to get the boys as far along with their scout achievements as we could. With a little diligence and pushing we were able to get Matt pretty close to Weblos rank and his Arrow of Light and Nate was able to get his Wolf rank. He received it at the last pack meeting that we attended as part of Pack 171 which included a swim party. It was great to belong to such a dedicated pack with wonderful leaders.

Morning Muster

Goynes Elementary has a great tradition. They call it their Morning Muster. Every morning to call the kids to line up for classes at the beginning of the day, instead of using bells they play music. Something up beat, something you can dance to, something to get the kids excited to be a school. I've heard everything from Micheal Jackson to the Village People come over the speakers. After this a welcome is given, pledge of allegiance, moment of silence, and announcements are all done before being dismissed for class. Before school ended this year, Danny was able to be one of the kids involved with Morning Muster. He was so excited and practiced for a week on his line. He made sure I was going to be there with camera to document his moment in the sun.

We Are So Proud of Him

Doug has been very busy this last year and on July 31st it all paid off with his graduation ceremony from the Advanced Education in General Dentistry program. And what a ceremony it was. The Air Force really knows how to recognize accomplishments. Commanders from the dental squadron, hospital, wing, and dental headquarters were in attendance. (For those still confused with the military stuff, there were big time head honchos there.) A flag ceremony by the honor guard and the National Anthem sung by a retired Chief Master Sargent started the ceremony. Recognition was made of all the dignitaries in attendance followed by a "go and serve well" speech. The graduates were then handed their certificates of accomplishment and completion. My favorite part, of course, was the recognition given the spouses. Each spouse was called up individually and given a certificate from the commander of the residency program recognizing their sacrifice and support of their spouse. Then the graduating spouse was called up to bestow a token of appreciation. After a few closing remarks, the Air Force Song was sung. There were many handshakes and congratulations passed around. There was so much great support shown. Close to a hundred people attended this ceremony held for five individuals that had only been there for a year. In the many jobs both Doug and I have held, I have never seen it's equal. It has shown me that being a member of the military is more than a job. It is a lifestyle, a family, and an honor.

In the program Doug had the opportunity to attend the California Dental Convention and present a table clinic. Because this is a national setting to show off the program, all the residents spend a lot of time getting everything perfect. All the table clinics are evaluated at the convention with 1st place, 2nd place, 3rd place and three honorable mentions being awarded. Doug represented the Air Force well receiving an Honorable Mention as the only award to be received this year at the convention by the Nellis AEGD program. He was also featured in the SG Details (the official newsletter of Air Force Dental Service)

I am so proud of all that Doug has accomplished this year. He has increased in his knowledge and is able to give his patients better care. I was able to be there when one of his patients took the opportunity before we moved to introduce Doug to his son as "the doctor the saved my life" and thank him for his service and sacrifice. (a really good story that if Doug won't tell, I would be happy to) He continues provide well for us, his family. And my boys beam when they see their daddy, the Captain.