During a Salvation Army wedding ceremony in 1966, Peter and Nellie Stritzinger, in full regalia, faced each other, held hands, and said their vows on their knees. They rose that day in Niagara Falls, N.Y., to begin serving the Lord together.

In October 2007, Lt. Colonel Fred Van Brunt, a Servants of Christ sessionmate of Nellie’s, served as master of ceremonies during the Stritzingers’ retirement service. He called them both “super.” Speaking about Peter’s administrative abilities and business acumen, Van Brunt said, “He was and still is a very organized individual. Not everybody can be a Pete Stritzinger,” Van Brunt said.

Major Barbara Van Brunt shared stories of her experience with Nellie when they were Home League Camp leaders in Conway, N.H.

“Nellie and I just wanted these women—who had so much stress in their lives—to have a wonderful, spirit–filled weekend. And that is what we had,” Van Brunt said.

‘A glimpse’

A special PowerPoint® entitled “A Glimpse into Our Journey” traced the Stritzingers’ path from the School for Officer Training (SFOT), where Nellie was commissioned in 1963 and Peter in 1964 as a member of the Heroes of the Faith session, to their separate appointments in Pennsylvania to their joint appointments in Pennsylvania and Rochester, N.Y.

In 1988, they began serving at the divisional level in Northern New England and Empire State. Then, in 1994, they came to Territorial Headquarters, where they served in various departments, including Home League, Property, and Officers’ Services & Records.

‘VIPs’

Majors Janice MacLean, Patricia Mack, and Diane Boush offered moments of fun and heartfelt reflections as they described the Stritzingers as the Very Important People (VIPs) in the room.

Daughter Elizabeth noted how her parents had integrated Army and family life. “Aside from the Holy Bible, the Dispo [Army’s internal directory for officers and staff] was the most important book in our home,” said Elizabeth. “Our father taught us stewardship—that you leave something better than when you found it. Mom has taught us that the little things matter and everyone deserves your time, attention, and love.”

Major Mark Tillsley, territorial secretary for personnel, presented the Stritzingers’ retirement certificate. The former SFOT principal acknowledged them as gifted officers and administrators who helped complete a major SFOT renovation project.

“Their skills notwithstanding, they will be remembered for their godly character as revealed in times of joy and, particularly, in times of great difficulty,” said Tillsley.

In response, Peter thanked his wife, Nellie, his parents, family members, officers, and staff. “The downside to retirement,” Peter said, “is that we are leaving behind so many of our friends—people that we have grown to love and appreciate—and we will miss you. We have not had enough time to serve with you.”