TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- Tyndall hosted its fourth annual military high school graduation recognition ceremony, May 19, at the Horizons Community Center.
Dependents of Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine service members were recognized and presented with certificates for their achievement. More than 60 graduates were recognized.
“Military personnel and their families relocate roughly six to nine times within a military career,” said Tamara Turnmeyer, 325th Force Support Squadron school liaison officer, and exceptional family member program coordinator. “Many of these moves are completed during a student's high school years, making it challenging for a student to become established within a high school.”
Turnmeyer is the central organizer for the event; a function she has performed for the last three years.
Family members and service members alike attended the ceremony to show their support to the new graduates. Attendees were entertained by the comedic stylings of Army Reserve Maj. Jody Fuller.
While performing his skit, Fuller discussed some of the challenges of growing up with a stuttering problem and how he used it to his advantage.
“When I was younger I thought I’d just grow out of it you know?” Fuller said. “After realizing that I probably wouldn’t, I dealt with it and now incorporate it into my skits.”
Fuller is also a public speaker and writer with three tours of duty in Iraq.
“I try to select speakers that are motivational and inspiring,” Turnmeyer said. “Great role models that have been successful in their life, no matter the challenges or hurdles that they were faced with.”
Several graduates received scholarships from local organizations like the Black Heritage Committee, Tyndall First Sergeant Group, Tyndall Officer Spouses Club and the financial planning organization, First Command.
“We will continue to host the event each year,” Turnmeyer said. “Each year, we just hope it continues to grow.”