A Weekly Reminder of Honor by Yvette M. Pino
Veteran: Mary K., US NAVY
Artist Statement: To capture a military career that spans 28 years is a daunting task. It would do that career a disservice to attempt to sum it up in one piece of artwork. I enjoyed a long conversation with Mary and the most recurring theme was that of Mary’s pride in the Navy and its personnel. One particular statement stood out to me. She mentioned that during her time at Great Lakes Naval Training Center she was required to attend the graduating ceremony of the new recruits each week. I said, “That must have been exhausting- not to mention repetitive.” And Mary responded, without missing a beat, “NO! In fact it was the complete opposite. Each week a new set of young men and women were fulfilling the commitment they had to made to serve their country. That ceremony represented the first step in a young Naval career.” Some people say these words to sound patriotic. Mary, however, is significantly genuine when she discusses this topic. Thus, the image in this print is taken from an actual photograph from a Navy Graduation Ceremony at Great Lakes Naval Training Center. After listening to Mary’s story, my creative instincts led me to ideas of energy and movement juxtaposed with documentary characteristics.