Ft McNair Promotion Ceremony - Col Stephens

Congratulations to the Army's newest Colonel - Colonel Stephens.  Col Stephens was promoted from Lieutenant Colonel to Colonel January 31, 2018 during a ceremony at Eisenhower Hall on Ft McNair in Washington D.C.  Prior to the start of the ceremony, the Official party gathered to discuss any last minute changes with the narrator. 

The Official Party entered the Auditorium and showed reverence to the playing of the National Anthem.

This ceremony was not only a happy moment for Colonel Stephens, but also his family as they looked on to the Presiding Officer speak about their loved one with smiles. 

The family was called on stage to pin on the rank of Colonel.

When a military member is promoted, it's tradition the Oath of Office is administered.  

After the completion of the Oath, Colonel Stephens began his remarks and thank his friends, family, and coworkers for attending his ceremony.

It's customary to have the branches service song play at the conclusion of the ceremony.  So, at the completion of Colonel Stephens ceremony the Army Song was played.  To the delight of the attendees, you could hear Col Stephens youngest daughter singing the song the loudest; she knew every word and pause. 

At the end, everyone began cheering.

After the ceremony, Colonel Stephens' guests and family proceeded to the Ft McNair Club for a reception.

The reception consisted of a southern buffet with sweet tea.  It was truly a southern feast with mix greens salad, fried chicken, fried fish, ribs, sweet potato soufflé, green beans, corn bread, macaroni and cheese, and peach cobbler.  Yes, all the southern food favorites.  The center piece of the meal was this beautiful promotion cake.

Colonel Stephens cut the cake with his younger daughter. 

Colonel Stephens and his wife, Faith, greeted their guests and thank them for attending a special moment in the life and history of their family.

Congratulations again Colonel Stephens.  It was an honor to photograph a special moment for you and your beautiful family.  I wish you continued success with your military career.

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Ft. Lesley McNair is in Washington DC.  It's located where the Potomac and Anacostia rivers join.  It's also home to the National Defense University.


If you or your spouse is being promoted in any branch of the United States Armed Forces, I would be honored to photograph your ceremony.  I may be contacted by calling (571) 250-5073 or by email at tamieka@tamiekasmithphotography.com.