On Wednesday, as 225 U.S. Coast Guard Academy cadets crossed the stage at Cadet Memorial Field in New London, Connecticut, to become newly commissioned officers. This class, which commenced its journey during the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, has demonstrated extraordinary adaptability and perseverance.
Provost Amy Donahue encapsulated the sentiment of the day by affirming, “You are going to save the world.” Some of the ensigns will cruise aboard icebreakers or drug-interdiction vessels while their classmates will attend flight school or head to far-flung ports to assist in the aftermath of natural disasters. Still others will prepare to respond to environmental accidents.
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, the keynote speaker, paid homage to the graduates’ fortitude. “Perhaps you are the most tested and resilient of the 142 classes that came before you,” he remarked, underscoring the unique difficulties faced by cadets who began their academy journey amidst a global pandemic. Rear Adm. Michael Johnston, in his first ceremony as academy superintendent, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the class’s unwavering dedication: “Despite the rest of the world being on lockdown, you showed up on July 8, 2020.”
Adm. Linda Fagan, the commandant of the Coast Guard, provided inspirational guidance, urging the graduates to lead with honor, respect, and devotion to duty, while also emphasizing compassion and trust. “You’re embarking on a truly noble calling of service to the American people,” Fagan said, reflecting on her own commissioning nearly four decades ago and the enduring values of the Coast Guard.
The Coast Guard noted this class has the highest percentage of female graduates of any class to come through the academy at almost 42%. This class also had the highest percentage (5.68%) and highest number (13) of Asian female graduates of any class. The class also maintained five international students as part of this class, from countries including Guyana, Honduras, the Philippines, Jordan and the Dominican Republic.
Kai Wismar, from Simsbury, is headed to Newport, Rhode Island, where he will be stationed on a buoy tender. His older brother also graduated from the academy three years ago. Wismar’s parents and family couldn’t be prouder. “I can’t express it,” said his father, Eric Wismar. “It’s unbelievable.”
The ceremony concluded with graduates like Raymond planning brief respites before commencing their new roles. “I’ll relax for a few days and then head down and get settled in Virginia. Then, I’m going to Disney World,” he said.
Relevant articles:
– Coast Guard Academy Graduates Are Told They ‘Are Going to Save the World’, Military, 05/24/2024
– Coast Guard Academy celebrates commencement for class of 2024, NBC Connecticut, 05/23/2024
– Coast Guard Academy graduates 143rd class, WTNH.com, 05/22/2024
– DHS Secretary delivers Coast Guard graduation speech, WSHU, 05/22/2024
– New commander at helm of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia Sector Guam, DVIDS, 05/23/2024
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