Farewell to Trumpets

The salutes have been given. The parade has marched off to thunderous applause. The band has fallen silent and packed their instruments away. The Training Year is complete. 

Band, Alpha Flight and Flag Party being inspected by the Outgoing CO

I broke my usual monastic habit and went out for drinks after, but it being a work night I, I put some money towards the group tab and left after only a half pint. As I put my beret on and went out the door of the bar to walk to my car, it suddenly struck me, this would be my last time wearing my uniform. 

At last night's parade,  I watched the young lady who was just an OCdt when I assumed command of the Squadron, and who had kept me organized as my Admin O and confidante for three hectic years. I watched her perform the Rituals passing command to her successor after a very successful six year tour as CO, rebuilding from Covid. 

I sat with the other past COs, and enjoyed the Liturgy of a Cadet Squadron performing a Ceremonial Review, marveling at how good they'd gotten in the past year.

My Mustering Out was recognized and words were said, gifts were given, and hands were shook. After the dismissal, five of the senior cadets approached to each give me a last salute and say good bye. A few parents expressed their appreciation as well.

It's gratifying to know I made a positive impact.

All the departing staff were given pictures of appropriate aircraft, but as Samantha said, I got a picture with a plane on fire.

Also probably a nod to my constant efforts to inject RCAF history in general, and the Battle of Britain in particular, every chance I got.

An uncharacteristic hug from a woman I admire.

And because I like Old things, (but am not apparently "old"!), they gave me my favorite office chair, which was in the squadron offices for decades and  at my desk for the past six years. 

"What are you going to do on Tuesday nights now?"

"Well, I think I'm going to sit in my new chair and paint!"

It's time to go, but part of me is going to miss it.