As I reflect on the four years I spent as PNS I am very grateful for the opportunity to have led such a talented group of midshipmen and staff, both uniform and civilian. There was no better way to wind up my career, working a great job in the city I love.
Tulane NROTC is truly unique, and my interactions with other units throughout my tour only reinforced my belief in this fact. Shrimp and crawfish boils, Carnival parades, the Mardi Gras Drill Meet, and the Run for the Fallen are just some of the events that separate the Tulane NROTC experience from that of all other units. There always seemed to be something going on in the city or on campus, and our midshipmen were in the thick of it.
I think, however, what really separates Tulane NROTC from the rest is our people – midshipmen, staff, and alumni. Our midshipmen are driven, focused, and whip smart. They will serve the Navy and Marine Corps well. Our staff, both active duty and civilian, are dedicated to the mission and the midshipmen under their charge. It was truly a joy to see our midshipmen acknowledged for their excellence, as our mids were selected for prestigious overseas study programs, recognized with school and academic honors, and awarded the top prize in national scholarship competitions. Likewise, it was just as fulfilling to witness our staff being recognized for its excellence, as Tulane NROTC was honored for having the 2017 Naval Service Training Command (NSTC) Marine of the Year, and the 2018 NSTC Instructor of the Year. Whenever I think of Tulane NROTC, I will always be reminded of the unit’s continued commitment to excellence.
Last, but certainly not least, I am grateful to the Alumni Association. Your interest, involvement, and support is like no other alumni group across the NROTC spectrum. I am confident that your Association is one of the best. We would not have enjoyed many of our successes over the past four years without your tremendous support. Please know the positive impact you have on our staff and midshipmen. I will always be grateful for all you have done and will continue to do, and consider myself blessed for having the opportunity to serve with you. Thank you for the Lifetime Membership Award and the very beautiful miniature sword and plaque you presented me at the Annual Meeting; receiving it was a happy surprise, and I am delighted to own such a thoughtful keepsake of our time together. Roll Wave!
