West Point Graduation

Our nephew, Derek, recently graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. It was a pure pleasure to visit new territory - New York's Hudson River Valley region and join in the festivities. Friday was the parade of cadets. The various companies each entered from different buildings surrounding the field. The precision was amazing and an incredible sight. On graduation day, we listened to President Obama give the keynote address, cheered (and of course took pictures) as Derek was handed his diploma and watched the hats fly. Following the commencement, we moved to a location overlooking the campus for Derek's pinning of rank. Alan Ludwick, our brother-in-law, was the first to salute Derek. Not a dry eye in the place. It was a once in a life time experience. We are incredibly proud of Derek. We had to add one picture of Jonas. He graduated last in the class to the cheers of his classmates! Last is really not a bad thing. Each cadet donated to a pot of money, the alumni association matched the cadets donation and... Jonas walked away with several thousand dollars and what is he? A second lieutenant with a degree from West Point!