The Importance of Celebrating Retirement

Waving goodbye to the Pentagon

After over 30 years of active duty service, this summer my Dad finally decided to retire. He wanted to silently leave his career behind, without any kind of ceremony, party, or recognition; but we planned one for him anyway. And not just any family gathering or dinner – my mom spent months secretly booking a venue, inviting almost everyone he’s known throughout his career, and planning a unique ceremony. It wasn’t until I was in the room, watching my Dad and his friends laugh and reminisce on their friendship, that I realized exactly how meaningful the party was. Here are three reasons why celebrating military retirement is so important, and an extra idea for planning!

1. Closure for the Family

As every dependent knows, military life is absolutely encompassing for every member of the family. Beyond being a career for a parent, it becomes a unique lifestyle and a large component of our identities. It’s important for both the service member and the family to be celebrated, and it gives everyone a chance to find closure from a big chapter of life, and often, the only one that brats know.

2. Remembering the Community That You Still Have

Even though retirement is an ending, it doesn’t mean that you’re cut off from the military. Gathering with friends and family who are military-connected during retirement can help remind you and your family of how tight-knit our community is. Support from those around you is massively important, not only during retirement but for any events in life. Seeing the people you love at a ceremony or party can help remind you that the bonds you’ve made are lasting.

3. Positive Start to a New Chapter

Leaving military life behind can feel daunting, but having a party or a celebration is a great way to start out on a good foot. I think that throwing a party for my Dad, even though he originally didn’t want one, was able to reframe the next few months for both him and my family. 

4. Make Retirement Unique!

Celebrating retirement doesn’t just have to be an on-base ceremony. For example, my Dad’s favorite place to visit is Mount Vernon, George Washington’s estate. Since he didn’t want a traditional ceremony, my Mom reached out to their incredible team and set up a makeshift ceremony at George and Martha Washington’s tomb, complete with the Revolutionary Band. I love the idea of incorporating a parent or family’s favorite locations or activities into retirement!