Dear Captain

When reflecting on my father, a myriad of virtues spring to mind: strength, sacrifice, devotion, and unwavering loyalty. His life has been a testament to these qualities, evident in his enduring love for our family alongside his selfless commitment to serving his country. Now, as he approaches the culmination of a remarkable 31-year military career, he stands on the threshold of a new and unfamiliar chapter in life.

Growing up, my father's duty frequently necessitated separation from home. Not wanting us to upend the lives we created in Williamsburg, we stayed in our family home while he either commuted or moved depending on the station. Despite the distance, he made certain to still be present, providing unyielding support from wherever he was. I can even recall the countless occasions when he would make the 9-hour journey from Rhode Island to Virginia to spend precious moments with us. His sacrifices, both big and small, have left an indelible imprint on our family, fostering within us a profound sense of loyalty and ambition. Every day, I find myself in awe of his resilience and unwavering commitment. This sentiment is shared not only by me but also resonates deeply with my sisters, each of us profoundly impacted by his steadfast presence and unwavering love. 

In an endeavor to immortalize the significance of my father's service and the profound influence of his devotion on our lives, I am attempting to create a visual journey of this service and love through photographs and videos. Through these mediums, I aim to encapsulate the essence of his sacrifice and the depth of his commitment, allowing viewers to glimpse into the heart of a man whose life has been defined by service and adoration. The photographs range from shots of the bases on which he worked to portraits that attempt to capture his demeanor, to images of places where I feel his presence around our home, whether that be through material items or symbolism. Additionally, the video is a culmination of clips that serve as poignant reminders of his presence throughout our lives, invoking a sense of nostalgia and gratitude for the countless moments shaped by his unwavering love. It is meant to appear as a home video acting as a memory, having footage from old camcorders interspaced with mundane yet peaceful moments.