More than 90 college students from the Fort Knox's Education Center walked across the stage to the cheers of a full house at Waybur Theater Oct. 18.
Having completed degree and technical education plans from 27 colleges and universities, the students made up military, civilian and family members of the community. Representatives from 13 academic institutions took part in the ceremony.
The guest speaker for the event, Maj. Gen. John Evans Jr., commended Fort Knox Education Center Guidance Counselor Sally Ingle for her efforts in making the ceremony happen and encouraged the students to take their educational achievements and apply them.
"Through the Army Continuing Education System you have all taken advantage of the opportunity to broaden and develop your knowledge and training; and to increase your potential for career progression," said Evans. "Our Army offers the tools, but the onus falls to each service member to accept the challenge and exercise the self-discipline, hard work and dedication necessary to obtain their degrees.
"Albert Einstein once said try not to become a person of success; rather, become a person of value."
Because of the transient nature of military life, many Soldiers and their families are unable to attend official graduation ceremonies at school locations, according to installation officials. As a result, the Education Center established an annual graduation ceremony in 2016 that allows them to enjoy the pomp and circumstance.
Evans said the degrees represent the beginning of an adventure, closing his remarks by quoting Dr. Seuss: "You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You are your own, and you know what you know. And you are the one who'll decide where to go."
Social Sharing