National Archives - Ryan

Today in the Nation's Capital, the sky was a beautiful blue with a crisp in the air.  Awaiting the arrival of Air Force Captain Ryan and his family to arrive at The National Archives for his promotion ceremony to Major, it was a great opportunity to photograph the wonderful scene.

Upon arrival, Captain Ryan and his family took the time to catch up and share a few laughs.   

Captain Ryan, his family, and guests gathered outside the Special Event doors awaiting the staff of The National Archives to allow entry.  Once inside, everyone was allowed to walk around inside the Rotunda and view the documents and the two murals.  The National Archives Museum is the ultimate location for military special occasions, since the ceremonies take place in the rotunda where the Constitution of the United States and Declaration of Independence are housed.

WASHINGTON D.C., March 19, 2018-- The United States Constitution in The National Archives Museum.  Photo by Tamieka Smith

For the start of the ceremony, everyone gathered around the podium.  Colonel Reiman discussed Captain Ryan's military career and what has brought him so much success.  There were even funny stories shared about his family eating at WAWA.  If you're in the Northern Virginia, Maryland, or Washington D.C., when you hear the word WAWA, the instant thought is the gas/convenience stores in the area.  However, the guests learned there is also a restaurant with the same name.  Colonel Reiman even told the ceremony guests what Captain Ryan's family members would order to eat.  Which brought lots of laughs and smiles.  

After the completion of the Oath of Office, Captain Ryan's parents and siblings were called forward to change his insignia on his military uniform to the rank of Major.  

Standing in front of The United States Constitution, Major Ryan address his family, friends, and co-workers and thanked them for coming to his promotion ceremony.

Everyone gathered and posed for a group photo in front of the Constitution at the conclusion of the promotion ceremony.

Once outside, it was a great opportunity to get a quick selfie.

Congratulations to one of the Air Force's newest Major - Major Ryan.  I wish you continued success in your military career.

---

If you're in the military and have secured your date with the National Archives Museum for your upcoming promotion, retirement, or reenlistment ceremony and you're looking to hire a professional photographer to photograph your ceremony, I would love to speak with you.  As a veteran and military spouse, I'm familiar with the customs and courtesies of a military ceremony.  If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me via telephone at (571) 250-5073 or email [email protected].