Colonel Romero

On January 1st Joe officially became Col. Romero. We had his promotion ceremony on Monday, January 4th, after the holiday break. Joe had the privilege of having General Jones officiate the ceremony. I am proud of Joe and his accomplishment, but not surprised. Not only does he give 110% to everything he does, he also aims to achieve nothing less than perfection. Being wise enough to know he's not perfect, he's smart enough to surround himself with people who will help him do the best job possible. Good work Joe, and a big thanks to those who helped him along his way!

General Jones making some remarks.

Annika upstaged her dad the entire ceremony. But I guess when you look at the big picture of life, she is a bigger accomplishment to Joe than work promotion. Here she is holding his hand while they stand at attention for the National Anthem.

Joe with his most loyal companion.

Joe told me the night before how to pin on the eagle pin, but he didn't show me with the actual pin. So of course when I pinned him I had the eagle facing the wrong way. It was kind of funny if you ask me.

Pinning on the Bird.

Joe's parents have been to every promotion ceremony of his except for one when they could not get leave from work. They are proud of their son!

Joe's parents changing his epaulets on his shirt.

Taking the commission officer oath.

Annika holding her daddy's had for the entire oath. I told you she upstaged his big day!

The General said since Annika was holding Joe's hand for the oath, they got two Colonels for the price of one. I'm happy Joe works for an organization that is so family oriented.

Annika had a present for her daddy too. We got him a key chain from Things Remembered that said "Daddy, you're my hero" on the front, and had a personal inscription from Annika on the back. Inside is a little picture of Annika.

The proud family!

Joe and his own little clan.