Anybody who says that the Novus Ordo cannot be reverent has not seen a Mass from the Shrine in DC...or from St. Peter's in Rome.
The only thing I have against the Novus Ordo is that the custom (not a mandatory requirement, btw) is universally to celebrate the Liturgy of the Eucharist ad populum. That, imho, is the source of many of the problems. The celebratnt, in facing the faithful, can fall prey to the temptation to put on a pious show for the faithful, rather than re-presenting the sacrifice and offering it to the Father WITH the people.
BTW, my 13-year old daughter drags me down to St. Mary Mother of God for the 9 AM Mass as many Sundays as possible. She LOVES the Tridentine Mass. (Such a horrible position for a father to be in!!!)
Too many liturgists, too many liturgy committees, and too many musical directors who pretend that we actually aren't having to go to confession for what they are inflicting on us...that's where a lot of irreverence comes from...and the clergy who aid and abet them, and believe like they do, too.
I read your bio on your page and saw where you were stationed - I was born in '53 when my father was stationed at Scott AFB. And then he retired in '64 at Norton AFB, which is near March AFB(AKA March Field). All before your time, I'm sure, but still kinda cool...anyway, thank you for your service!