Eight cadets were commissioned as second lieutenants during
the ceremony, officially signaling a start to their careers as officers in the
United States Army.
Lt. Col. Edwin Escobar, commander of the Rattler Battalion,
reminded the cadets and family members in attendance that he was surrounded by
a great team at FAMU, to include his cadre, Department of the Army Civilians
and the University’s faculty and staff.
Brig. Gen. Donna Martin, deputy commanding general of
operations for the United States Army Recruiting Command served as the keynote
speaker for the ceremony. During her remarks Martin reminded the lieutenants of
their sacred obligation to the soldiers and families they will soon lead and
guide.
“You will soon be responsible for America’s most precious
resource, the American soldier. As a leader of character, you accept personal
responsibility for your actions and those of your subordinates,” Martin said.
A few of Martin’s previous assignments include a deployment
to Saudi Arabia as a platoon leader in support of Operations Desert
Shield/Storm, service as Branch Chief in the U.S. Pacific Command J34
Antiterrorism/Force Protection Directorate and Third Infantry Division
Inspector General.
Martin encouraged the eager officers to always strive to
grow and develop as leaders throughout their military careers.
“Living and learning does not stop after you receive your
commission, it is the beginning. Yes it will be challenging at times, but I can
tell you that living the life of an Army officer has been extremely rewarding
to me and has filled me with an enormous sense of purpose,” Martin said.
Family members attending the commissioning were informed
that they have already sacrificed for their country in a significant way.
“You have given us these fine cadets who will soon be
commissioned officers. You have instilled in them the values of discipline,
hard work and the importance of service to our great nation,” Martin said.
Ultimately, the newly commissioned officers and their
families were encouraged to cherish the moment and celebrate the decisions made
that helped them reach such a monumental period in their lives.
“When things get tougher, because they will, remember today,
remember how you feel today. I want you to reflect on what you’ve already
accomplished. Managing the responsibilities of ROTC while balancing a full
class load is an enormous task and you should be very proud,” Martin said.