Colleagues, co-workers, family members, and friends gathered at the Washington Navy Yard Sept. 23 to witness a unique retirement ceremony, which honored five rear admirals who collectively celebrated 170 years of service to the Navy.

Chief of Navy Reserve, Vice Adm. Robin Braun served as guest speaker for the event. She, along with the assembled crowd, celebrated the culmination of the naval careers of Rear Adm. Tom Beeman, Rear Adm. Paula Brown, Rear Adm. Kelvin Dixon, Rear Adm. Brian LaRoche, and Rear Adm. Chris "Tree" Sadler.

Braun noted the distinguished contributions of each rear admiral to their respective naval communities, and to the Navy as a whole. She also took time to individually thank both the retirees and their families for the sacrifices they made during the combined 170 years spent serving the nation, both at home and abroad.

During their remarks, it appeared evident each retiree was grateful for all the love and support they received from their families, as well. The rear admirals also praised their fellow Sailors, mentors, and leaders from the beginning of their respective careers to the culmination.

A similar theme echoed throughout the ceremony was "leaving behind a legacy." This message reflected upon leaving the Navy a better, more productive force than it was upon entry, and not only seeking individual success, but contributing to the mutual success of fellow Sailors and civilian co-workers alike.

Under the Friday morning sunlight, in the twilight of their dedicated service to the United States, each retiree appeared thankful in their remarks they can rest easy knowing the Sailors they mentored, led, and trained have the watch.

As the ceremony drew to a close, it seemed only fitting the rear admirals received parting salutes from a group of side boys they knew well. Retired classmates from their initial promotions from captain to rear admiral stood tall, looked sharp, and proudly welcomed all five newly-retired colleagues ashore for the final time.

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