Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md. -- The U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM) and Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) recognized future service members in the Marines, Navy, Air Force and Army with a ceremony held here May 17 in conjunction with Armed Forces Week.
The ceremony entitled "Our Community Salutes," was presided over by CECOM Commanding General and APG Senior Installation Commander Maj. Gen. Bruce T. Crawford, with a keynote address by U.S. Army Materiel Command Sergeant Major James Sims.
The ceremony recognized over 50 northern Maryland youths to honor the commitment made by the next generation of military leaders and their families, to introduce future Soldiers, Sailors, Airman and marines and their families to the Profession of Arms--- a team of trusted professionals, and to display to the community at large unwavering and continued support for young men and women who have volunteered to serve the nation. The ceremony was seen as an initial and necessary step in the "Soldier for Life" program and as a way to recognize the community's efforts to support the nation's newest military members.
"I can almost guarantee you that the time spent wearing the cloth of the nation, as a Soldier, as a Sailor, as an Airman, as a Marine, as a Coastguardsman, will be time well spent," Crawford said. "It will influence the rest of your life."
Crawford later administered a ceremonial oath of office to the future service members and gave each individual a token of recognition for their enlistment. Crawford also recognized the parents and family of those enlisting this day and acknowledged that they had given their most gift and resource, their sons and daughters, to proudly defend our great nation.
CSM Sims acknowledged his pride in being a part of day designed to recognize the commitment these young men and women were making.
"This is a step very few people take in their lifetime," Sims said. "Less than 1% of today's American population has chosen the path you have chosen today.
"I remember not too long ago when I took this same oath," Sims said, " when I joined the Army, I was looking for a job, one that allowed me to see new things, gain new experiences, face new challenges, and provide an opportunity to go to college. Now, after 32 years of active service and serving for a four-star commander as one of the top enlisted soldiers in the whole Army, I can only hope your eventual experience is as rich as mine."
Sims encouraged each enlistee to establish keys for their military service before they begin: set personal and professional goals for their service; establish a relationship with a mentor; be eager to observe, listen and learn; establish internal guidelines; be humble; and listen to your non-commissioned officers.
"As I look across this group of individual here today," Sims said, "I see professionals, I see future leaders, I see individuals who will make a significant impact across the military and I am very excited."
Crawford too urged the youth to "As I've said a few times, I'm a believer. And I believe in you. I believe in the indelible spirit that you bring. I believe in the fact that you are willing to step forward and take risks. And accept challenge."
After the ceremonial oath of office, presentations and pictures, one future service member from each of the four services present joined Crawford and Sims to take a ceremonial saber to the carving of the celebratory cake. Once a medley of traditional service songs were played, the cake was shared between the new and the old; families and friends; the past, present and future of the services.
In a week dedicated to thanking those who serve today, CECOM and APG welcomed new members to the cloth of a Nation. Trusted Professionals, Professionals Always.
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