James gets "wetted down" as he picks up Captain.

Welcome to the Witten Wet Down. This is a party given by the Marine when he picks up a new rank. The budget for the party is equal to his pay raise. Basically all drinks are on him. ;) It was a wonderful occasion with a few sentimental touches.

Major Kindro (Blo) leaving a thought for James. 

Mingling guests... 

John, wait for the brisket, man! 

Captain Stewart dancing for the guests. As for Battle G, it's too early to be sleepy! ;) 

The makings of our spread which included: sangria punch, Brasilian black beans and rice, sushi plates, brisket sandwiches, pita chips and hummus, green salad and shrimp cocktail. 

John cutting his famous brisket. Yum! I coaxed him into slow roasting 3 of these for the party. :) 

Happy Marines... 

Happy guests... 

Introducing the drink-ice luge. This ice block must have weighed nearly 100 lbs and catered to everyone's tastes at the party. Mine was Bailey's. ;) Someone pours at the top, while another receives at the bottom. 

Look at James go!! 

This drink luge was a big hit! 

James pouring a drink for the luge while his friend is on the receiving end. 

James chiseling a new track for the ice luge. The next Michelangelo, perhaps?? ;) 

One proud Marine wife. ;) 

James making his speech to our guests, including Marines who recently arrived from Iraq. 

A cake fit for a Captain. "Deuce" is James' call sign out in the field. 

James cutting the cake while our kid guests wait anxiously for a piece. No sword to cut this cake, however. :) 

Enjoying a cigar with the boys. 

The aftermath of cleaning up included enjoying the remaining icing on the cake. ;)