When we Army folks throw office parties, we do it a little differently than most.
If you’ve never been to a military ball, it’s kind of a cross between a formal gala and prom, with some semi-anachronistic ceremony involved. There is still usually a receiving line, still a seating of the ladies, formal toasts to the United States, to the Academy, to the department, and to our fallen comrades. The presentation of the empty table makes me mist up every time I hear it.
Maybe we’re old fashioned, but I like it that way. I like that we get dressed up when we get together. I like that there is an order of precedence and respect. I like that the ladies get seated first and treated with respect, whether they’re in or out of uniform. I like that we pay honor to those who have fallen or have not yet been brought home.
I like that military events keep some of the old ways alive, carrying on the traditions even in the face of a changing world, adapting those traditions to fit the new world. I hope that we continue to make room for good things, but I also hope that “old ways” like manners, courtesy, respect, and belief in the human spirit never go out of style.
Here’s hoping you had a great weekend and are ready for a wonderful week!
