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Throughout this gallery,
clicking on most pictures will display a larger image.
The ceremony was now nearing the end, and Brother Hilary gave the Benediction. Before I could begin my retirement, there were still a couple more traditions to attend to. First, my Leading Petty Officer, ET1 Hubert, read "The Watch" in my honor.
The Commanding Officer and I exchanged salutes. I said "Captain, request permission to go ashore." The CO responded, "Permission granted." The crew came to attention for my traditional piping over the side, or in this case I was "bonged ashore" by gongs on the command's bell. This symbolizes walking down the gangplank of a ship, flanked by side boys at attention while they render a farewell salute as I depart for the last time. This honor is not for me alone. After walking through by myself, I returned to the front of the room and took my wife and children through. Lastly, I made one more trip through, with my mother and parents-in-law. They were all an important part of my career, it seemed fitting to have them accompany me to my next stage of life.
That concluded my retirement ceremony. A wonderful reception followed. Good thing it was lunch time, none of the food was wasted! The little beer that was left in the keg was finished off by a few thirsty Chiefs I found in the CPO club right next door. Imagine that! Watch the video of my Piping-over-the-side
Ceremony |
