Thank you for your service. Celebrating Captain Nicole Speakman.

Just before I left for vacation I got a email from a lovely military nurse who was retiring from the Air Force. She wanted me to do the photography for her retirement ceremony. I have had the opportunity to photograph many different events but this was my first military ceremony. Nicole came to me through a friend who I go to church with and had taken photos for her son's first birthday. Thanks, Sarah for the referral. I was grateful that I had the day and time of her ceremony open....also that she would trust me with such an important life event for her and her family. When I met with Nicole we took some time to walk through the space where the ceremony would happen. The venue actually is a museum on base that also is used for this type of ceremony. I was glad to help Nicole think through some of the logistics and I put her mind at ease that it would be a wonderful and honoring ceremony. 

What I learned that day is what a distinguished military career she had and what value she brought to world of nursing. She has traveled extensively with the Air Force and has worked tirelessly as a nurse. Nicole was joined by her husband, John and son, Wesley along with her Father, Mother, her Sister and family. Many friends, extended family and co-workers came from far and wide to celebrate with her. She was overwhelmed with gratitude to all who came and celebrated with her.

Thank you, Nicole for your service and for trusting me. I wish you God Speed as you pursue nursing in the private sector.