The Ohio Department of Education recently recognized high school students from around Ohio who have committed to service in the U.S. military.
High school seniors and juniors who are entering service academies or have committed to serve as active duty, Reserve or National Guard members were invited to take part in the All-Ohio U.S. Armed Forces Career Commitment Celebration at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus.
“We recognize and thank Ohio’s high school students from across the state who have chosen to serve Ohio and our country in the U.S. military,” Interim State Superintendent of Public Instruction Stephanie Siddens said. “The students, like members of the armed forces before them, have chosen a meaningful post-high school pathway that will include hard work and sacrifice that will create many opportunities. Ohio and the nation will be a better place because of their dedication and service to others.”
The students signed commitment letters, received red, white and blue cords from the USO and celebrated with their families and members of the military and education communities. Stacia Naquin, a USO volunteer and ABC 6 news anchor, provided the welcome address. For the first time, this year’s celebration included a student speaker, Kiara Contreras, a student at Old Fort High School in Tiffin. Franklin Heights High School’s Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps conducted the presentation of colors. Delaware’s Cheshire Elementary School students led the Pledge of Allegiance and the Sgt. Szu-Yu Chu of the 338th Army Band sang the National Anthem.
The commitment celebration also featured:
- Col. Charles Barkhurst, Vice Wing Commander, 88th Air Base Wing, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base
- Maj. Gen. John Harris, Adjutant General, Ohio Air and Army National Guard
- Maj. Gen. Deborah Ashenhurst (Ret.), Director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services