Deployment thoughts, Military, moving forward, Uncategorized

Has it really been 25 years?!?!?

Movin' it with Michelle

 

 

I had a post drafted last night and ready for publishing today, but whenever I write a post I always set it aside and step away from it before clicking “Publish”.  I’m glad I did that this time, because I really need to quit being so hard on myself when it comes to my military duty.  I’ll explain more here in a few minutes…
Today is one of my favorite days of the year.  July 3rd.  Yup, you read it right, July 3rd, not 4th.  Why?  Because it’s my enlistment anniversary of joining the Air Force.  Today would’ve been 25 years had I stayed in longer than the required 20 years needed to retire.  But I retired after 20 years for several reasons.  Some of which I still struggle with to this day, but most of which I have learned to let go. 

Basic training!!!
Korean war memorial dedication, mid 90’s
Service member of the quarter, circa 1996?
Senior NCO induction ceremony 2007
Offical retirement photo
My family and friends at my retirement ceremony
My favorite retirement photo
First and foremost, I retired so I could be there for my kids.  When I get upset over the fact I never deployed, or am reminded I would’ve never been able to make Chief, I look at my daughters and know I made the right decision.  Having 2 parents in the military just isn’t the easiest thing to do so I decided stepping down was more important for the girls.  Yes, I still have to work full time, but I am at least here for them while my husband deploys.
Last night my girls and I kicked off the weekend (even though I am working all weekend and the 4th, I am trying to have SOME fun, lol) by going to military appreciation night at our local Kane county Cougars baseball game.  I submitted my hubby’s photo for the jersey, and they even asked for my photo too!  I felt a little silly next to veterans of this caliber, but I submitted mine anyhow!  I will be auctioning in hopes of winning one, too!!! Here are some pics from the game!
pano view of the field. Breathtaking.
All of the amazing veterans that will be on the jersey, honored to be among such heros
Freedom riders
The jersey! SOOOO cool!
POW/MIA ceremony
So while that first post really went in to all of my regrets I had about not being able to accomplish the goals I set out for myself while in the military, this post will share a few of my favorite pictures from my military days (see above).  It IS my 25 year anniversary after all, and even though I had to work today I’ll still treat myself to a glass of wine or two tonight.  🙂
How are y’all celebrating the 4th?  Hope you all have a safe and happy holiday weekend!
Cheers,
Michelle

Published by Movin' it with Michelle

My name is Michelle and I am a retired Air Force Master Sergeant. I have found a passion for running, cooking, writing, photography and all things that move my love for life! I've ran 3 full marathons, with a PR of 4:25, and 17 half marathons with a PR of 2:00:11 (yup-missed sub 2 by 11 seconds, lol). Thanks for joining me on my journey!

16 thoughts on “Has it really been 25 years?!?!?”

  4. Happy 25th and Happy 4th 🙂 It’s still hard for us to let go of the fact we’re not associated with active duty life, too. But, in a lot of ways, we are much happier and less stressed. Glad you had a fun time at the game and we’ll continue to be thinking about you and your hubs tomorrow ❤

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  6. Michelle

    I had not been following you for 25 years – but, I did get your post today – thank you.

    I see you are a runner – big time! We are also runners; we have a running company.

    Could I run something by you? We just started a virtual running-event website. It is http://www.virtualuberthons.com

    Have you considered, or would you consider being part of virtual events? Could we help you start a virtual event – Movin’ t with Michelle virtual event?

    We create the webpage, medal, bib, and provide the timing watches for all participants. Virtual Uberthons would pay you $5 – $10 for each participant.

    We started last month. A group from Michigan – Big Girls Do It Running – started their virtual race, and intend to do one four times each year. This is their medal. Your medal could be interesting, also

    We can talk more about the possibilities if you would consider this.

    Sincerely,

    Darwin Rasmussen ​

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  7. Thank you for your service! I sounds like you stepped away for all the right reason. I know you’re working tomorrow, but please don’t forget to check out my blog post, AND please thank Jordyn for allowing me to share her wonderful poem.

    Happy Independence Day, and God bless your family! xo

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  8. I must say that reading this post makes me glad that I never had kids. I’m sure that I, too, would feel that I had to step away from things that mattered to me. I guess you could say I’m selfish — I’m sure glad I don’t have to do such thiings!

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  9. I love the two uniform pictures at the top – the early stages of your career, and then the later stages of your career. Thank you for your service!

    And, thank you for your strength, courage, and commitment to your country – and, to your family!

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