My Son Brad's Final Review/Graduation

Well, I promised I would write y'all to let you know how Final Review went. I just got back from there about a hour ago. It's raining here in Seattle at 11:00 PM - a great night for sleeping, and I have to go work tomorrow, but I've got to tell you about this story, first! This was the first Final Review I attended since we all strolled over that grassy flat twenty-six years ago. Bobbie and I made numerous TAMU football weekends, a couple reunions, even a summer baseball camp, to experience all that A&M can offer as we watched Brad complete his years in the Corps. Experiences made to fortify our families and countries strong bonds - all rich in tradition - this time; it was a Final Review …for my son! From a parent's perspective, I observed different sights of that same event we all last attended in 1972. However, this time I was keenly aware of those subtle signs that signaled, "A tradition is continuing here!" The TAMU Final Review and March-in was as sharp and precise as ever. Yep, the pride is still there!

Afterwards, when the Corps filed from the field I stood as a proud dad in the crowd. I noticed that fish hesitate a second before throwing his "hat" in the air - afraid that somehow this fish year wasn't over yet and he soon would be told to perform one more minion role - then, gleefully heaving that tattered cover into the oak trees. Zilch, I watched them pass the Unit's Guideon after the first review and remembered you receiving it from Sam that day - standing tall representing all of us, out in front of the whole Heaven's 11 - and once again I saw that same attitude you displayed that said, "We made it!" I witnessed those p-heads turn into white-belts and I listened to their first jodies as they marched away. Later, in the dorm it was obvious to determine those who had just earned Serge privileges when, among all the guests and hoopla, the halls were crowded with the new Juniors obliviously walking to the showers - clad only in a towel - as they claimed their turf. Then came the new Zips, moving up to the front row or walking forward to assume a staff position - everyone of them beaming with pride and confidence. Later, I saw a sole Fightin' Texas Aggie Senior strutting off across the quad, via the grass, and I knew what he was experiencing!

Finally, the most fortunate ones - those brave few who endured it all and suddenly realized they achieved the goal they sought for so long. Among true friends, they cheered, stared, hugged, and cried! They suddenly realized - it was over, … and it was just beginning - their lives would never be the same. Some will go off to serve our country as the cutting edge of our Nation's will. Others will define our lives with goods.

Wayne (Rock) Lutz