Graduation Weekend

We finally made it! I just returned yesterday from a truly amazing weekend. The weekend's events kicked off with the Airman's Run. All of the graduating flights ran in formation while singing "jodies." I have video of this event, which I will work on figuring out how to post. The Coin Ceremony followed the run. This is the ceremony when the trainees all receive their Airman's Coin, signifying their transition from trainee to Airman. 

Marching onto the Retreat Pad for the Coin Ceremony

Matthew's MTI--SSGT Gonzales-she is so petite!

Coin Ceremony-Matthew is in the back row receiving his coin in this picture, although his face is being blocked.

Reunited after 8 1/2 weeks

After the Thursday events, Matthew was released on Town Pass. We attended the Alamo Bowl game Thursday evening and got to catch from of the excitement of the record score breaking game of Baylor vs. Washington. 

Outside of the Alamo Dome

Friday was the Graduation Parade. I have never felt so proud in my life as I did when Matthew marched out onto the field for the graduation ceremonies.

The "Bomb Run"-the Airman march in front of all of their families and friends

Airman First Class Lusher (A1C)

Matthew and his brothers

After the graduation ceremonies, we were able to tour the dorm in which Matthew and his fellow Airmen had been living in for the last 8 1/2 weeks. This was a great time, as well, to meet some of Matthew's new friends. Hopefully friendships that will last far beyond BMT. Then, we spent some time on the Riverwalk, a beautiful part of San Antonio.

Some of his fellow BMT graduates

Riverwalk

a margarita for 2.

Saturday we spent time eating, relaxing, and doing a little shopping at the Base Exchange with the family. Matthew and I were given the opportunity to attend the Spurs vs. Jazz basketball game Saturday night, so that is how we spent our New Year's. Although he was due back before midnight, it was nice to come close. We attended the contemporary church service on Sunday morning. It was so uplifting and fun to see all of the trainees and graduated Airman with their families relax and have fun while praising God and all his greatness.


We had a lot of fun and savored every second of the time we had together this weekend. It was hard saying, "See you later," but we know this next stage will be so much easier than the first. I am so incredibly proud of Matthew and all that he has accomplished. We are so excited for everything that the future holds for us!