Military Wedding

Military wedding can be experienced only by those who serve in the armed forces. In the AFP, there are variations to the protocols depending on the branch of service or source of commision. A common uniform used during this ceremony is the 'White Duck' which is normally worn during formal functions and also during burial honors. PMA graduates incorporate some traditions that are unique only in the academy. For example, the bride is serenaded with a song titled "My Kaydet Girl". The mistahs of the groom officially welcome the bride by dancing with her. Then, there is also the ceremonial cutting of the cake using the saber (military sword) which is also used during the 'Draw Sword'. For me, military wedding also means reconnecting the bond that ties mistahs together. It is only during this occasion that we get to see classmates whom we seldom meet during ordinary days.

When my mistah (PMA Classmate), Air Force Major Johnson Grayda, told me that he has finally decided to tie the knot with his long-time girlfriend, I promptly committed to attend his wedding. We are both members of the Hawk Company during our cadetship days. This photo was taken an hour before wedding.  We are both wearing the so-called 'White Duck', a common uniform to all officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Military brats who are part of the wedding entourage also have the rare privilege to wear a copy of their father's White Duck. Our mistahs who had already retired came with their Barong Tagalog. To those in the active service who came sans the traditional White Duck uniform, we refer to them as the 'PSG boys' (soldiers who are assigned to protect the CnC).

The star of the day was the bride. She was guided by her proud parents to the altar where his groom was eagerly awaiting.

I performed my 'mission' to bind them together as one. The common joke about this act  is 'pagpasakal' (strangling).

The marriage contract was signed and..........................

                        sealed with a Kiss!