Graduation Day = new "Cadets!"

"Dang, it's hot, sir!"  was how I was greeted on Saturday morning by one of my long-serving officers.   Meanwhile, USAC personnel were scrambled to set-up chairs, pull together the sound system and ready Forest Hill Station for an influx of guests.

"Sure would hate to have them fall out, sir," said another officer, hinting that the troops may be affected by the 104 degree temperature.

"You need to keep this one short, sir," said LTC Gorman, the first to cut to the chase, yet echoing the concerns of all the staff.   As a former military Public Affairs professional and currently an educator, I can talk for awhile...especially when I'm talking about the U.S. Army Cadet Corps (USAC).   It's a point of passion for all of us, so we like to tell our story.  But, this time, that story had to be short!  The graduation ceremony needed to be dignified, yet brief, so as not to cause the troops to suffer in the summer heat. 

Assembly was played at precisely 1000, and the troops marched on 200+ strong to the booming sounds of the "Army Strong" music.  They were under the command of MAJ Jeff Campbell, a 30+ year veteran of our program and the best trainer of recruits I've ever known.

Chaplain (MAJ) Franklin gave the invocation; the colors were presented; Ms. Sara Morgan Collier gave a beautiful rendition of our National Anthem; awards and promotions were presented; we honored our country's fallen with "Taps;" Chaplain (COL) Ellis closed us in a brief prayer and the troops marched off...I even got to tell a bit about the training, our opening of Forest Hill Military Academy and recognized our dedicated staff!  

We set a record....27 minutes for graduation!   It was short and to the point, yet extremely meaningful. 

Congratulations to all of our newly-minted Cadets.  We're proud to welcome you to our ranks and look forward to your continued participation with the U.S. Army Cadet Corps.

Hooah!


J. M. LAND, SR.     "Cobra 8"
COL, GS, USAC
Chief of Staff
U.S. Army Cadet Corps