Two MTSU cadets commissioned into U.S. Army Reserves

Two MTSU graduating seniors received their commissions as second lieutenants into the U.S. Army Reserve aviation branch during the Blue Raider Detachment Summer Commissioning Ceremony Friday, Aug. 5.

Following university tradition, the summer 2016 commissioning ceremony was held on the eve of MTSU’s graduation to celebrate the students’ completion of academic and physical training and their readiness to serve in various branches of the military.

Summer 2016 Military Science ROTC Commissioning Ceremony Future mother-in-law Debra Rodriguez taking a photo of Brandon Rodriguez and newly commissioned Kelly Slocum.

Future mother-in-law Debra Rodriguez takes a photo of Brandon Rodriguez and newly commissioned Lt. Kelly Slocum. (MTSU photos by J. Intintoli)

The commissionees are:

Nicholas A. Hruschak of La Vergne, Tennessee.
Kelly R. Slocum of Shady Springs, Maryland.

Both students will graduate Saturday, Aug. 6, with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from the Department of Health and Human Performance in the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences.

Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. David Ogg, an MTSU alumnus, served as guest speaker Friday.

Ogg, a member of the Classes of ’78 and ’87, stressed “integrity, high standards and humor” in his talk.

“Don’t give your integrity away. Never lie. People must trust you,” Ogg told the new officers.

“Hold yourself to the highest standard. Keep a positive approach and attitude. Be able to have the courage to laugh at yourself.”

Lt. Col. Jackie McDowell, who is completing his first year of leading the MTSU military science program, commended both cadets for completing their physical training and keeping their grades up.

The event included the administering of the oath of office, swearing-in and pinning of the commissionees, first salute ceremony and the singing of the Army song.

— Randy Weiler (Randy.Weiler@mtsu.edu)

Parents Paul Hruschak, left, and Fran Thorpe, right, watch as significant other Kayla Stacey, second from left, and friend Maj. Shiloh Harless pin the second lieutenant bars onto MTSU cadet Nicholas A. Hruschak’s dress uniform during the summer commissioning ceremony Aug. 5 in the KUC Theater.

Parents Kenny and Jane Slocum, left, and best friend Colleen Carmichael pin newly commissioned MTSU cadet Kelly Slocum during the Blue Raider Detachment Summer 2016 Commissioning Ceremony Aug. 5 in the KUC Theater.