Paul's Graduation from Basic Training

When my brother, Paul, joined the Utah National Guard, it was exciting to find out that he would be coming to Georgia for basic training. Though we wouldn't be able to see him during training, we were able to go to his graduation. My mom was able to fly out to be here for it too.

The day before the graduation they had a family day with a short ceremony. We made it right before the ceremony was over as we were delayed by some red and blue flashing lights. These are their dress up blues, the army's new dress uniform. Paul's class was the first to wear them.
We had the day to spend with Paul, but were in a small town without much to do. My mom was smart enough to get us a hotel room for the night instead of making the two hour drive each way for two days. After the ceremony and getting some lunch, we went back to the hotel where Paul slept for about four hours! Some much needed rest I am sure.

Here he is after the graduation ceremony the next day. Congratulations, Paul! We are so proud of you!

Nathan came with Braden and Ryan. After the ceremony we went to the National Infantry Museum which was really amazing. It has the history of Infantryman along with uniforms and weapons from the past to the present. Very cool museum.

We found out that Paul had permission to go to the Wild Animal Safari park that was about forty minutes from the base. It was well worth the trip. The animals would come right up to the car knowing that you had food for them. There were lots of deer, longhorns, giraffes, ostriches, lions, warthogs (who were all pregnant), and a rhinoceros.

This giraffe stuck his tongue out, used it like a finger and grabbed the piece of food right out of Anna's hand. She wasn't hurt or scared, more shocked than anything. After that we decided to roll the windows half way up. It was a lot of fun and glad we had the chance to do it.