"Pomp and Circumstance" took on a unique military twist Nov. 15 as the Education Center held its first Joint Services Graduation ceremony at Brucker Hall on Fort Myer.
As The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own" played the graduation standard, 45 graduates, all active duty or former service members, proceeded into the auditorium as family and friends applauded and snapped pictures.
"Each of their achievements are worthy of our recognition and respect," said Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Carolyn Donaldson of the graduates.
Army Sgt. 1st Class Melissa Burgos not only was recognized during the ceremony for earning her Master's Degree in Business Administration from Phoenix University. She also helped organize the event.
"This is the first joint graduation," she said. "I also work for the education section, so we're hoping everyone has a great time today."
Former Army Staff Sgt. Pauldelan Delacruz celebrated earning his bachelor's degree in liberal studies with a concentration in criminal justice and history from Marymount University.
"This means a lot for me, just to grow my career," he said.
Sergeant Major of the Army Daniel Dailey served as the event's keynote speaker. Dailey brought a unique understanding of what it took for the graduates, who balanced their military careers with family obligations while juggling classes, to earn their degrees. Dailey earned his bachelor of science degree from Excelsior College in 2010 despite multiple deployments.
"Out in front of me represents four associate's degrees; 26 bachelor's degrees; 15 master's degrees from over 25 institutions," he said. "Almost half of you were recognized as honor graduates and inducted into national honor societies. This is something to truly be proud of."
Dailey noted that the ceremony took place during National Education Week and just days after Veteran's Day.
"Service and education, both are near and dear to me," he said. "When I was selected for this position as Sergeant Major of the Army, NCO education, MOS credentialing and job certifications were high on my list of priorities. They remain there today."
Daily said education paves the way for the future.
"Knowledge helps set the foundation and standards for those coming up the ranks behind us," he said.
Dailey said it's important that service members take advantage of opportunities afforded them by the American people.
"Tuition assistance and senior fellowships are such opportunities," he said. "Remember they are not rights nor something to which you are entitled. They are a gift, if you will, from the American taxpayers and American people which we serve. Please don't lose sight of that as you transition to the next milestone in your careers."
Dailey also lauded the staff and faculty of the Fort Myer Education center.
"You are outstanding stewards of education and higher learning," he said. "Our military community is lucky to have individuals such as yourselves supporting our brave men and women as they strive to better themselves through a higher level of knowledge and skills."
Like any graduation speaker, Dailey concluded his remarks with words of advice for the graduates.
"Whatever you do, lead by example and share your knowledge and experience with your respective services. Mentor those who need it." he said.
"Offer advice on time management; how to improve research skills; and advocate the resources available at our military education centers around the world. Don't let any of that go to waste."
Pentagram Staff Writer Julia LeDoux can be reached at jledoux@dcmilitary.com.
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