Commissioning

Commissioning, a time honored tradition throughout the United States Navy and Marine Corps, takes place yearly near the end of the Spring semester. Commissioning is a formal ceremony that inducts the senior class midshipmen from the Carnegie Mellon NROTC Unit as officers into the Navy or Marine Corps. This ceremony marks the first step in one’s formal military career. After standards have been met throughout the four years as a midshipman, commissioning is the ultimate goal.

A hallmark of the tradition is the placement of the shoulder boards for Ensigns and gold bars for 2nd Lieutenants. This act is usually performed by two significant figures in the newly commissioned officer’s life. Another important aspect of the event is the reciting of the Oath of Office, which is a statement that solidifies their commitment to the Navy or Marine Corps. The first salute is the closing segment of the day’s events. At this time, the new Ensigns and 2nd Lieutenants receive their first salute from an enlisted member of the military, either retired or active duty. This signifies the recognition of their new leadership position in the military community.

While many of their peers may count down the days until college graduation, most NROTC midshipmen would agree that commissioning is the pinnacle of their hard work throughout their college career. It is a time for family and friends to participate in the recognition of their loved one’s achievements as they begin a new chapter of their lives.