1/327 INF Battalion Ball

 Last night was my first Army Ball. I took the day off work to hang out with Billie and get ready. The ball was at the James E. Bruce Convention Center in Hopkinsville, KY. It was the perfect venue to house all 550 of the ball-goers. Our friends Andy and Robin picked us up at 3:30 for a 4:30 social hour. Next was the traditional receiving line where the guest speaker, Battalion Commander, Battalion Command Sergeant Major and wives greet each of the ball attendees. 

My handsome date and me

Our friends Robin and Andy (and baby bump)

We made our way up the stairs, greeted all the big bosses, then made our way down the opposite side.

Next we found our seats for dinner. The night involved a speaker, toasts, and the army tradition of the "grog." The grog is a drink mixed in a large silver bowl. To honor the history of this battalion, selected soldiers stood and added ingredients to the grog bowl, reading a small piece about the historical significance.  To honor their contributions during WWI and specifically their fighting in France, French champagne was added. For their fighting in Vietnam, rice wine was added. Although I can't remember all of the history, I do remember seeing mustard, bourbon, sand, and sriracha going into the grog, to name a few. Next, a representative from each table filled a pitcher full of grog for each table. Luckily, our table got a pre-mixed grog that more closely resembled kool-aid (as opposed to the real grog which looked a bit more like murky tomato juice.)

A few of my pretty friends

After the formal events of the evening concluded, the dance floor was opened! We had so much fun. Loved having the night with Billie and celebrating all the history that's unique to his Battalion.