Retired

Twelve years ago, my best friend, Carol, reenlisted in the Air Force Reserve, reviving a military career she'd left behind some twenty years previously, with an eye towards a secure retirement in the future.

On that momentous day, the kids and I accompanied her to the local recruitment office and watched her sign her life away.

In the blink of an eye, my friend, Carol, became Staff Sergeant Beutel.

At first, this was mostly a weekend gig, but eventually she accepted a full time position.

In 2018, Carol was promoted to Technical Sergeant.

That's also the year, she took a three year assignment in Stuttgart, Germany. 

In 2021, she returned to the States as a Master Sergeant. For the last several years she has worked at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi.

But no longer!

Earlier this year, Carol reached that secure retirement she'd been working towards all these years. 

The ceremony was held yesterday in Aurora, Colorado.

The room was filled with Carol's family and friends, many of whom travelled great distances - including internationally - to be in attendance.

Of course, the Buxtons - minus James - were there.

I wouldn't have missed it for the world.

The only thing more fabulous than Carol's retirement ceremony is Carol herself.

Congratulations, my friend. I am so happy for you, and I cannot wait to see what the next chapter holds for you!