Military Retirement

RETIREMENT CEREMONY

OF

1SGT Dennis Zuccone

WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

POSTING OF COLORS

NATIONAL ANTHEM

INVOCATION

SCRIPTURE READING

Psalm 18:1-3

AMERICA, THE BEAUTIFUL

Congregation

CHARGE TO THE RETIREE

Rev. Ed Nicandro

“MILITARY RETIREMENT”

Someone has said, "Real soldiers don’t know any civilians."

Another has said that for those who make the military a career, there is always the danger of becoming “insti-tu-tio-nalized.”

One gets used to wearing the uniform, learning the language, sharing the hardships and enjoying the benefits of life within this unique subculture. Eventually, however, one has to face the reality of hanging up the uniform for the last time.

Military retirement causes people to re-shift their focus toward traditional civilian life or career. Some appear ready, eager for the change, while others leave kicking and screaming!

In preparing to depart military life, one needs a vision for the future. As God led you into the military, I believed . . . God can redirect you with a new vision.

There was this man named Jose who grew up as a military brat (his father was a retired CSM). When he joined the Army in 1961 as a Chaplain Candidate, he never thought he would ever want to do anything besides serving as a chaplain.

Yet, as he became eligible for retirement, and began to be drawn towards a civilian vocation—after a lifetime in the military—he found himself ready to settle down as a civilian.

He heard no voice but clearly felt the Holy Spirit leading him to move on. Joe prayed, talked with his wife and his supervisory chaplain, attended a transition workshop, and then submitted his paperwork.

Joe said, "Throughout my time in the military . . . my career verse was Revelation 3:8— ‘I have set before you an open door which no one can shut.’

Yes, the sovereign, unseen hand of God opened and closed doors throughout my 24 years of service."

Dennis, as we trust in Divine Providence, you can face a new civilian career without fear, confident that God is directing, guiding you, and going with you.

Always rely on faith, not fate.

God is the true President of every promotion board, and He, not the Pentagon, decides which way our careers should go. He guides us, giving enough light to take the next step.

Dennis, I believe you are prepared for a meaningful departure.

Always take time to reflect on your career, focus on the positive blessings, and how you have grown, and what you have learned.

Always give God the credit and glory for your achievements, and be sure to thank your family.

"To God Be the Glory" to your retirement. God bless you and your family!

MILITARY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

AWARD PRESENTATION

REMARKS

1SGT Denise Zuccone

CLOSING PRAYER

WORDS OF BLESSING