National Museum of the US Air Force | Lt Col Arting’s Retirement
Retirement ceremonies are some of my favorite events to photograph. They’re personal, meaningful, and always full of quiet moments that speak volumes. Last week, I had the honor of photographing one for Lt Col Aaron Arting inside the Cold War hangar at the National Museum of the US Air Force. Between the historic backdrop and the sweet, sincere words shared, it was one of those afternoons that reminded me why I love this job so much.
A Retirement at the National Museum of the US Air Force
The setting couldn’t have been more fitting. Rows of aircraft overhead. History all around. Family and colleagues gathered to celebrate one man’s decades of service. But even surrounded by so much legacy, this ceremony was grounded in something more personal: the people who stood beside Lt Col Arting along the way.
His parents, his wife Sheena, and their two sons, Colin and Declan, were right at the center of it all.
During the gift presentation, Aaron paused to honor the many sacrifices Sheena has made over the years. From putting her own career on hold to caring for their boys through every move and deployment, he recognized just how much she’s carried. As a thank you, he surprised her with a gift: a name plate that read Dr. Sheena Arting. A few years early – she’s still working toward her doctorate – but such a thoughtful way to show his commitment to supporting her fully in this next chapter.
He also took time to recognize Colin and Declan, reflecting on the challenges they’ve faced as military kids… starting with the day Colin was born, while Aaron was serving overseas. It was clear how proud he is of them, not just for getting through the hard parts, but for becoming the young men they are today.
To the Arting family, congratulations and thank you for inviting me to preserve this milestone. It was an honor to document the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next.
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Are you planning a retirement ceremony at the National Museum of the US Air Force? I would love to tell your story too! Reach out here to start the conversation.
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I HAVE A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR YOU!
I've been navigating military life with my family since 2008. In that time, I went from a full-time classroom teacher to an online course designer to a photographer. Actually, I still teach a little math on the side because I just love it too much!
Through it all, I've discovered how passionate I am about connecting with military families. Whether it's taking photos at a retirement ceremony, coaching a fellow milspouse photographer, or just grabbing coffee with a new squadron friend, I love this community. And as a teacher at heart, I'm excited to use this space to share what I've learned about business and life with you.
I'M ERIN.
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