ROTC commissioning emphasizes family affair

Eleven students completed their ROTC commissioning inside the Hobson Performing Arts Center, embarking on a critical step in their journey. The graduating class of 2025 at Campbell University increases the total number of deployed cadets to 1,201 over the 54-year history of the program.

"Let your can-do spirit, strong relationship guide your leadership style," noted guest speaker Major General Peter A. Gallagher, Director of the Network Cross-Functional Team within Army Futures Command.

Each student was pinned by key members of their family featuring siblings, parents, children, significant others and fellow members of the military.

Family was a central story of Friday's event.

The sacrifice, commitment and dedication exemplified by the supporters in attendance brought tears to the future cadre. Multiple students were joined by their children on stage for an emotional pinning ceremony.

Pedro Banegas, a Miami native, served eight years as a paralegal NCO before transitioning to become an engineer officer. His leadership will undoubtedly shape the lives of soldiers Banegas is now tasked to lead in the U.S. Army.

"Ultimately, we need you to be effective," noted Major General Gallagher. "You have to know your job, do your job and be as smart and accurate as possible."

Graduates include Pedro Banegas (Engineer), Sergio Colon (Medical Services), Jacob Davis (Military Intelligence), Aicha Diarrassouba (Quartermaster), Logan Hadding (Signal), Maris Lopez Fierro (Military Police), Ruth Orozco (Adjutant General), Brandon Villines (Military Intelligence), Taylor Wilson (Quartermaster), Ton-Ann Wright (Medical Services) and Liya Zheng (Adjutant General).

Click here to rewatch the entire commissioning.