Navy Retirement Ceremony Guide

Even for the saltiest of sailors, a retirement ceremony can be an emotional time. A retiring sailor has spent most of his adult life dedicating himself to the needs of the Navy. Now, instead of taking orders, it's time to start paving her own way. Before all that starts, a retiring sailor must plan his Navy retirement ceremony.

Significance

Retiring sailors have spent at least the past 20 years sacrificing their time and effort for the sake of their country and the Navy. They have grown accustomed to concentrating on the needs of others, so they might hesitate to have a retirement ceremony in their honor. However, they can find solace in remembering that a retirement ceremony is just as much for others as it is for the sailor. Those who have supported the sailor over the years deserve a ceremony as well.

Planning

Planning for a retirement ceremony starts months in advance. Often, an individual other than the retiree is assigned to plan the ceremony. Be sure to approach officials early, giving them an opportunity to prepare any awards or speeches that may be appropriate. Send invitations weeks in advance, leaving enough time for guests to arrange to attend. Determine and secure the location, and if food is to be served, contact catering services or decide on another option.

Ceremony

Choose an emcee to oversee the ceremony and announce the entrance of officials. The ceremony should include a keynote speech from a Navy official; this might be the commander of the squadron or base with which the sailor is associated. If the retiring sailor is eligible for any awards, the commander or another official will present them to the sailor.

Presentations

If the sailor is married, he may choose to honor his wife through the reading of a poem or a small speech to recognize her sacrifice. His children also might be honored with a Letter of Appreciation. The retiree is often presented with a shadowbox, which includes a flag, ribbons and medals awarded to the sailor, uniform insignia and possibly a boatswain's pipe.

Many also choose to conduct an "Olde Glory" presentation in which the nation's flag is honored through the reading of a poem. Others include a "missing man" ceremony or a presentation of the cutlass. A "missing man" ceremony, most commonly featured in ceremonies involving those in aviation, is a formation flyover with one plane missing or peeling off. In the presentation of the cutlass, the retiree is given a sword. This is often done for a retiring chief petty officer.

After the Ceremony

Immediately following the ceremony, appetizers, sandwiches or desserts, as well as coffee and other beverages, are sometimes served. The most common item is a cake, a staple at many retirement receptions. This time following the formal ceremony is an opportunity for officials, family and friends to socialize.

References

• Goat Locker Retirement Resources
• Navy Storekeeper

Resources

• Goat Locker Retirement Resources