What to expect for your Flight school Graduation & Family day
Let's talk about Family day
After long days and countless training hours, it's finally time for Family Day - your chance to proudly show your loved ones the aircraft you’ve been working so hard to earn your place in.
For Blackhawk families, the day can get crowded, so I recommend arriving right when the doors open. This gives you more time with fewer people around. The good news? The aircraft is under cover, so you’ll be in the shade!
For Chinook and Apache families, the aircraft will be on the flight line in full sun. Unless it's a cloudy day, expect the tarmac to radiate heat - so be sure to bring plenty of water to stay cool and hydrated. Chinook Family Day usually has a more intimate crowd due to the smaller class size, while Apache events tend to be more crowded.
As for photos, we’ll capture a mix of posed portraits and candid, documentary-style moments. I’ll tag along as you explore the aircraft - whether you’re explaining equipment, sitting in the back or just sharing what it feels like to fly. These natural moments often make for the most meaningful memories.
We'll also take posed photos in and around the aircraft with all the family members you’ve invited, making sure everyone is part of this special experience.
Portraits at the Aviation Museum
Before or after Graduation, we’ll take family photos both inside the museum and outside with the aircraft. Everyone you’ve invited is welcome to join in!
We’ll focus on portraits with your spouse, as well as group photos with all your guests and any smaller family variations you'd like. In addition to those, we’ll capture detailed shots highlighting your newly earned Aviator wings - a perfect way to commemorate this proud milestone.
Next up: Flight school Graduation
 
The big day has arrived - Graduation is here!
Graduation ceremonies are typically held at 10:00 AM at the Aviation Museum on post at Fort Rucker. Things can get busy quickly, so for the best parking and seating, I recommend arriving by 9:00 AM. By around 9:30 AM, most of the spots are usually taken. If the main lot is full, don’t worry - there are several nearby areas within a five-minute walk.
Once you’re settled into your seat, get ready for a meaningful and memorable ceremony. It lasts about 60 minutes, during which I’ll be documenting all the important moments and details of your Aviator’s achievement.
When it’s time to pin your Graduate, please keep in mind that the space at the front is limited. For that reason, it's recommended that two to three family members participate in the pinning to ensure everything runs smoothly.
If you’ve invited extended family to share in the celebration - no problem! We’ll take family photos inside the museum either before or after the ceremony, making sure everyone is included in this special day.