National Archives Photographer - Colonel Promotion

Promotion to Colonel
at
The National Archives

As an Air Force veteran and a wife of an Airmen, I've been to many promotion ceremonies.  I'm always honored when fellow veterans and spouses contact me wanting to hire me to photograph their promotion ceremony (even more so when it's held at the National Archives) and this ceremony was no different.

Becky contacted me a few weeks ago to determine if I was available to photograph her husband's promotion ceremony.  I'm so thankful and grateful I was able to witness this special ceremony.  

I usually arrive 30-45 minutes early to the National Archives to photograph the outside of the building; to capture the overall mood of the day before the ceremony.  However, the Nelson family was so excited about this wonderful career achievement, that once I arrived, I jumped right in (to my surprise I'm usually the first to arrive). 

We all noticed the thickness of the humidity, but were still able to enjoy the surroundings and the beautiful statues surrounding the museum.  It was also a great opportunity for co-workers to meet immediate family members.

Oh boy, we were so excited and thrilled when the doors were opened.  I think we all internally screamed air conditioning.  Once inside we waited for our security escort  to take us to the Rotunda.  When we walked thru the gates of the Rotunda, you get the first glimpse of one of the murals.

After seeing the beautiful moral, family and friends began looking at the nation's documents prior to the start of the promotion ceremony. 

The ceremony was called to order by the children of the newly promoted Colonel. 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and the Oath of Office was administered.   As you can see looking at the above mention photo, The Oath of Office was administered by Colonel Nelson's Father, Lieutenant General (ret) Nelson.    

Congratulations on your promotion Col Nelson.  Your promotion is an amazing accomplishment and I know you will continue to serve the country and make your family proud!

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If you're a member of the United States Military and looking to hire a photographer to capture your promotion or retirement ceremony, I would be thrilled to speak with you.  I may be reached via telephone at (571) 250-5073 or by email tamieka@tamiekasmithphotography.com