Nearly 170 cadets are commissioned into the armed services at the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps joint commissioning ceremony in Cameron Hall May 15, 2025.—VMI Photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.
Nearly 170 VMI cadets commissioned into the armed services at the annual Reserve Officers’ Training Corps joint commissioning ceremony in Cameron Hall May 15, 2025.
U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Karl Gingrich, U.S. Army deputy chief of staff, offered the commissioning officer remarks and administered the oath of office to the cadets beginning their journey of military service as second lieutenants in the U.S. Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Space Force, and as ensigns in the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.
It was the final commissioning ceremony for Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, who welcomed all in attendance and thanked the ROTC departments, faculty, staff, family members, and guests who supported and encouraged the cadets throughout their time at VMI. “Every successful cadetship is a testament to the hard work of many people. VMI produces more commissioned officers than any other school in the nation outside of the federal service academies. This doesn’t occur by happenstance.” He noted that the ceremony marks the culmination of 4 diligent years and the beginning of a life of service, which is one of the central purposes of VMI—to prepare citizen-soldiers.
After Wins recognized veterans and current military members in the audience and thanked them for their service, he noted that since the founding of VMI 186 years ago, cadets have always stepped up to serve the nation and that soon many of those commissioning will join other alumni serving around the world. “We must have a strong military that is led by forward thinkers who are highly educated and grounded in character. As I look out here today, I see future leaders who are ready for the challenge. I feel confidence and hope for the future of our nation, because, during your time at VMI, I have seen what you are capable of doing.”
U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Karl Gingrich, U.S. Army deputy chief of staff, gives the commissioning officer remarks before administering the oath of office to nearly 170 commissioning cadets.—VMI Photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.
Wins shared with the cadets that when he became a young officer, his life was filled with exacting missions, tough training, rapidly changing responsibilities, assignments around the world, attendance at outstanding military schools, and service under remarkable leaders. “Above all, I became part of a great team of soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and service families. You, too, will come to cherish these same experiences,” said Wins.
Wins congratulated each of them on pursuing and attaining their commission and told them the country is fortunate to have them.
When Gingrich began to speak, he recognized several distinguished guests in the crowd, including retired U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Jack Moran, a 99-year-old World War II veteran who flew from Los Angeles, California, to witness the commissioning of Thomas Langston ’25 into the Army. Langston’s great-great-uncle, Tommy Langston, was Moran’s friend and squad commander in the 347th Infantry Regiment, K Company. On Dec. 16, 1944, Tommy Langston was killed in action in Obergailbach, France, near the German border. When Gingrich introduced Moran, the crowd in Cameron Hall rose to their feet and offered Moran an emotional ovation.
As Gingrich continued his message, he noted VMI’s remarkable legacy. “It is a privilege to address the commissioning officers from one of the nation’s top senior military colleges. This institution has produced nearly 300 general and flag officers, seven Medal of Honor recipients, 11 Rhodes Scholars, and one Nobel Prize winner. Additionally, VMI graduates have proven to be leaders in industry and government.”
He told the cadets that he appreciates their dedication, commitment, and determination, and that those characteristics will be essential to their future success. “You are about to join a selective portion of our society. A mere 23% of our nation’s young adults are physically, legally, or educationally eligible for military service. Less than 1% of our nation’s population currently serves. Vanguards of our freedoms and way of life, envied by our nation’s friends and allies and feared by enemies, tyrants, and oppressors worldwide. Of that proportionally small force, only 18% represent the commissioned officer corps, which you are about to enter.”
He noted that there are threats to American liberty all over the world, including North Korea, Russia, and China. “As Americans, we do not have a deed on liberty. We only have a lease that must be renewed by every generation, a lease underwritten today by these exceptional aspiring leaders.”
Gingrich reminded the cadets that they will sacrifice greatly, yet they will embrace the challenge and lead with courage. “You will set the example of quiet professionalism: Skilled, confident, and unflappable, but also self-effacing and humble. You will shun the limelight and defer credit to your subordinates, and despite that humble underpinning, you will have plenty of reason to be proud,” said Gingrich. He also said VMI will prepare them well for this challenge. “In all things, you will be held to a higher standard of conduct. This may sound overwhelming, but you’re ready. VMI has armed you for success.”
In closing, Gingrich referenced a personal favorite Bible verse, Isaiah 6:8. “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send and who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here I am. Send me!’”
He then asked the commissioning cadets to stand, and he administered the oath of office.
The Memorial Parade was held earlier in the day, commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of all alumni who died on the field of honor. The garrison flags were flown at half-staff by order of Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin in memory and respect of Peace Officers’ Memorial Day, a fitting backdrop as all 591 alumni names were read by Angelina Garcia ’25, William Lauerman ’25, Cadet Garrett Maye ’28, and Cadet Jamie Rodriguez ’28. A wreath was laid at the foot of the monument, “Virginia Mourning Her Dead,” as well as at the three barracks arches, followed by the firing of a three-volley salute. A stirring echo rendition of taps was played, followed by the Pipe Band leading the Regimental Band in “Amazing Grace.” Col. Lawrence “Ley” Havird ’90, commandant, was joined by Wins in taking review of the parade as the Corps marched from the Parade Ground down Letcher Avenue toward barracks.
Editor's Note: Story originally published by Virginia Military Institute.
