Mom and Dad sent me a CD with their photos from the trip to Parris Island. I thought y'all might enjoy seeing some of them.
Here we have the Rice Men, Ryan, Daddy and Aaron. Dad wanted the boys to salute him. I don't think any agreement was reached on that issue, but they did agree to all smile for a photo together. Or at least as much as manly men ever smile.

Here is a photo of Ryan (right) and Micah Brooks (left). Micah is a friend of ours from church, and he and Ryan ended up in the same group of recruits at basic training. It was fun to see the Brooks family at Parris Island for all the festivities, and I know they are very proud of Micah.

This photo is of Mom and I hugging Ryan right after he the graduation ceremonies were dismissed. We were in the second row of seats, and since there were various military dignitaries seated in the front row, we didn't think it would be appropriate to just hop over the chairs.

Other miscellaneous photos include Kelly and Aaron at the airport on their way to Parris Island:

Kelly and the big strong Marines. Kelly, myself, Hannah and Audrey are fond of telling people that we have two Marines in the family. It's kind of like having your own security detail if you ever need it.

This is Aaron with his former drill instructor Staff Seargeant Cuellar. Aaron was really pleased to visit with him and be asked to speak to his current group of recruits.

Anyway, just thought those might be fun for all of you to see.

Comments (6)
Keep the pictures coming. They're awesome!
Posted by Bob and Tina Sybert | April 19, 2005 4:42 PM
Posted on April 19, 2005 16:42
Love the photos! The Rice men make us military family members very proud!
Haley, I hope you feel better soon! I am sending good healthy vibes your way. I cannot wait to hear about your trip! We still have no word on our next home but we'll catch up soon. In the mean time, you get well! Love ya!
Shanelle
Posted by Shanelle | April 19, 2005 7:43 PM
Posted on April 19, 2005 19:43
Thanks so much for posting the wonderful pictures Haley! Such pride in those boys and the girls are beautiful as well in your family! Prayers going up for you for quick healing. love - pam :)
Posted by Pam Thompson | April 20, 2005 12:35 PM
Posted on April 20, 2005 12:35
What great pictures!! Everyone looks so good. It makes me realize how much I miss those kids being in Mississippi. Aaron- hope you get better soon and bring your bride home. We can't wait !!! Kelly- what a lucky girl you to be between two very dashing Marines. You will be the envy of all the single girls. Have Megan or Kristy print this and post it at the Chi O house. Miss you both and you have our continued thoughts, prayers and best wishes.
Posted by joanne fedrick | April 20, 2005 1:24 PM
Posted on April 20, 2005 13:24
Haley, hope you feel better. We'll say lots of prayers for you too! The pictures are great. Aaron, please be patient. I know patience is sorely lacking in the Rice gene pool but maybe you got some from your mom. (The Lord knows she has lots) Kelly, I pray for your patience and stamina to hold up under the WAIT. We're keeping everyone inour prayers.. We love you,
Aunt Barb, Uncle Steve, tiffany, Lauren & Courtney
Posted by aunt Barb | April 20, 2005 2:04 PM
Posted on April 20, 2005 14:04
Haley,
Thanks so much for the updates and photos. Aaron & Kelly have been in my prayers and I'm happy to hear that everything is going so well. Hope you are feeling better. I just got over the same illness and I have to agree it is nasty stuff. Even swallowing water was painful! All the best to you & your family.
Penny
VPMMofLcplKevin
Posted by Penny | April 21, 2005 5:55 AM
Posted on April 21, 2005 05:55