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Chaplain Gen. JP Smith, assigned to America's First Corps, asks the attendees to pray during the third anniversary of JBLM Rainier ROCKS Inc., at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Oct. 4, 2024. The organization has expanded to include over 40 members, evolving into an inclusive organization for all who wish to contribute to the success of the officer corps at JBLM. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Eve Moore, I Corps Public Affairs)
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ROTC Cadet Gavin Thiessen, a student with the Pacific Lutheran University, listens actively during the opening remarks of the third anniversary of the JBLM Rainier ROCKS Inc., at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Oct. 4, 2024. The organization celebrated its 3rd anniversary by awarding its second ROTC scholarship and honoring the legacy of Lt. Gen. Brunson. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Eve Moore, I Corps Public Affairs)
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Lt. Gen. Xavier Brunson, America's First Corps commanding general, highlights the mentorship aspect of JBLM ROCKS, Inc. during the third anniversary at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Oct. 4, 2024. The anniversary holds special significance because it marks the final celebration with Brunson, who has provided vital guidance as the senior mentor of the organization since the chapter's inception. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Eve Moore, I Corps Public Affairs)
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Lt. Gen. Xavier Brunson America’s First Corps commanding general, and Maj. Jackson assigned to America’s First Corps reward ROTC cadet, Gavin Thiessen with a scholarship during the third anniversary of JBLM Rainier ROCKS Inc., at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Oct. 4, 2024. The anniversary showcased the chapter’s unwavering commitment to mentoring future officers. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Eve Moore, I Corps Public Affairs)
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Lt. Gen. Xavier Brunson, America's First Corps commanding general, receives a plaque during JBLM Rainier ROCKS Inc.'s third anniversary at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Oct. 4, 2024. The anniversary holds special significance because it marks the final celebration with Brunson, who has provided vital guidance as the senior mentor of the organization since the chapter's inception. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Eve Moore, I Corps Public Affairs)
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Lt. Gen. Xavier Brunson, America’s First Corps commanding general, poses alongside JBLM Rainier ROCKS Inc. board members during the third anniversary of the organization’s inception at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Oct. 4, 2024. Brunson, the senior mentor of JBLM Rainier ROCKS, has provided instrumental guidance to the chapter since 2020. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Eve Moore, I Corps Public Affairs)
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Lt. Gen Xavier Brunson, America’s First Corps commanding general, offers advice to ROTC cadet Gavin Thiessen during the 3rd anniversary of JBLM ROCKS Inc., at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Oct. 4, 2024. The journey of JBLM Rainier ROCKS Inc. began in the summer of 2020, and within a year, the National Board approved the group to be chartered officially. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Eve Moore, I Corps Public Affairs)
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Lt. Gen. Xavier Brunson, America’s First Corps commanding general, cuts the cake along with ROTC Cadet Gavin Thiessen during the third anniversary of JBLM Rainier ROCKS Inc., at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, Oct. 4, 2024. The organization celebrated its anniversary with a commitment to developing future leaders. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Eve Moore, I Corps Public Affairs)
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JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. — Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) Rainer ROCKS Inc., a local chapter, marks its third anniversary by awarding its second scholarship to a deserving ROTC Cadet. Lt. Gen. Xavier Brunson, the I Corps commanding general and the senior mentor for the organization, provided closing remarks highlighting the importance of mentorship and success on Oct. 4, 2024, at Joint Base Lewis McChord.
JBLM Rainier ROCKS, a local chapter established in September 2021, marked its third anniversary on Oct. 4, 2024. The chapter began as an interest group in the summer of 2020 and has grown to over 40 members.
The ROCKS, Inc., a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has provided mentorship and professional development for military officers since its founding on Dec. 1, 1974. The organization, which includes ROTC and Military Academy Cadets, active duty officers, reserve officers, and Department of Defense civilians (GS12 and above), aims to strengthen the officer corps through mentorship, scholarship, and service.
"Thriving is when you find yourself in an environment where you can be the best you can be," said Brunson during his remarks at the third-anniversary event. Brunson emphasized the importance of providing environments where individuals can thrive, not just survive.
The celebration was especially significant as it marked Brunson's final event as Senior Mentor, recognizing his instrumental role in the chapter's formation and growth. ROCKS encourages officers to actively mentor others while seeking guidance to further develop as leaders.
"I joined ROCKS to be both a mentor and a mentee, and it has profoundly shaped my development as a leader," said Maj. Mikhail Jackson, America's First Corps G4 Corps Transportation Officer and President of the JBLM Rainier Rocks. "Acknowledging the nuances of a new generation is crucial in our pursuit of organizational excellence and success."
JBLM Rainier ROCKS continues to provide a platform for military leaders to form lasting bonds and advance through mentorship and service.
Brunson also highlighted the significance of mentoring: "Your only job is to be available, to use your ears more than your mouth, and to share your hard-won lessons," said Brunson. "True success is measured by the impact you have on others. Remember, it all starts with showing up."
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