National Archives - Townsend

It was a beautiful day in Washington D.C. for a military promotion ceremony.  There wasn't a cloud in the sky, hint of rain, but there was a little chill in the air.  

The family arrived with lots of excitement and anticipation.  Their smiles are infectious.  

Major Townsend introduced his family to his friends.  It was also an opportunity for their son to get a last minute play time in with his octopus.

Once inside the National Archives Museum, Major Townsend's family and friends took a brief look at the nations documents before the ceremony was call to order.

Maj. Gen. Green, the Presiding Officer, talked about Major Townsend's distinguished military career and why the Air Force sought to promote him to Lieutenant Colonel.  Major Townsend is also a Purple Heart recipient.  Purple Heart recipients are awarded to members of the armed forces of the U.S. who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy and posthumously to the next of kin in the name of those who are killed in action or die of wounds received in action. 

There were even a few funny stories shared which brought a huge smile and laugh to Major Townsend.

Major Townsend's son was super excited at the beginning, but half way thru the ceremony he had tired out and just wanted to be held by Mom. 

The Promotion Orders were published and the room came to attention.

Lieutenant Colonel Townsend's rank was changed by his wife and Mother on his Service Dress coat and his son pinned on his new rank on his cover.

It's military tradition to have the Oath of Office administered during a promotion ceremony and Lt Col Townsend followed with tradition.  Maj. Gen Green administered the Oath with the United States Constitution in the background.

Lt. Col Townsend thanked everyone for attending his promotion ceremony.  

At the conclusion of the promotion ceremony, Lt. Col Townsend, his family, and guest gathered to take photographs.  

Mr. Adams, one of the Security Officers, help explained some of the documents in the Rotunda of the Archives.

Did you know you could see Abraham Lincoln in one of the mural in the Rotunda?  Mr. Adams, is helping Lt. Col Townsend and his guest to see where President Lincoln is located.  Can you find him?

Congratulations to Lt Col Townsend and his family.  I wish you the best and continued success with your military career.
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If you're having your promotion, retirement, or re-enlistment ceremony at the National Archives Museum and are looking to hire a professional photographer, I would love to speak with you about photographing your memories.  I can be contacted via telephone at (571) 250-5073 or by email at [email protected].

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National Archives Sessions