Graduation/Army Basic Training Send Off Party?

We did the same thing 2 years ago for our Army daughter. We had it outside, 2 tables for food, 1 for drinks and 1 for desserts. We had a couple more tables set up with photos, letter jacket, and all kinds of school souvenirs, such as programs from the play, yearbook... We had a book for people to sign. We also had a signup sheet for people to put their address so they could be given her address to write to during bootcamp and AIT school. We stuck to using her school colors for our tablecloths and flower centerpeices.

I did notice at Hobby Lobby that they had camo items that could be used for centerpieces as well. We used disposable plates and silverware, because we didn't want to spend hours cleaning up. The food we had was walking taco's, various salads, veggie tray, fruit trays and a decorated cake and various desserts. As most graduation parties, we had kids who were going to several, so it was an open house style. People came and went as all the parties were that same day.

I would have a sign-in board where all the guests will wish him well. Also have a person taking videos. This will be a real comfort to him when he leaves home.

Food that serves a crowd would include chili and chicken