Final Summer Army ROTC Commissioning Ceremony Held Virtually

2020 virtual Army ROTC summer commissioning ceremony

The UA Army ROTC program conducted a virtual commissioning ceremony at the end of August for the U.S. Army’s newest lieutenants.

2020 virtual Army ROTC summer commissioning ceremony on laptop

The ceremony was held virtually due to coronavirus restrictions and guidelines.

The five former cadets were the last of the program’s summer graduates.

“We wanted to make the ceremony as memorable as possible because they will always remember their gold bars being pinned on them,” said Lt. Col. Antwan Brown, professor of military science and chair of the department of military science.

The commissioning was the second ceremony UA Army ROTC held virtually. The first was held in the spring.

“My journey wasn’t the easiest nor the toughest,” said 2nd Lt. Corbin White. “I do know that God was with me every step of the way. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to lead soldiers and be a part of the strongest fighting force in the world.”

Brown said all five commissioned officers will now report to jobs within the Army.

“As a new second lieutenant in the United States Army, my next steps are to finish my master’s degree in public administration here at UA,” said 2nd Lt. Ellis Harkins. “From there I will move on to Fort Gordon for basic officer leadership course.”

Brown swears in the newly commissioned officers.

Brig. Gen. Roger Presley of the Alabama National Guard gives the ceremony’s keynote address.

Hooah, Army strong.

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