‘Our Community Salutes’ conducts 2nd Annual Salute to AACPS students who chose military

‘Our Community Salutes’ conducts 2nd Annual Salute to AACPS students who chose military

Our Community Salutes of Anne Arundel County, Maryland, honored nearly 50 students of Anne Arundel County Public Schools’ (AACPS) Class of 2024 who have committed to military service upon graduation with a ceremony at Glen Burnie High School Monday, April 29.

Master of Ceremonies for the event was Larry O’Connor, radio talk show host on Washington D.C.’s WMAL-FM radio. Featured speakers included: Col. Michael A. Sapp, Fort Meade garrison commander; Dr. Mark Bedell, Superintendent of AACPS, Brig. Gen. Kelly Dickerson, U.S. Army Reserve Chief of Staff, and CSM (Ret.) Michele Jones, the ninth Command Sergeant Major of the U.S. Army Reserve. 

A common theme throughout the evening from each of those addressing the students was opportunity – opportunity to open their minds, to be part of something bigger than themselves, the opportunity of adventure, and the opportunity that comes from joining their new military family.

The oath of enlistment was administered to the group by Dickerson before the enlistees were called across the stage individually by a representative from the branch of military awaiting their service.

Monday’s event, with approximately 200 in attendance, was the second time Our Community Salutes has conducted their High School Enlistee Recognition Ceremony in Anne Arundel County.

The organization began holding these ceremonies in 2009 in South New Jersey to honor those students who made the choice to enlist and serve their country and community. Since that first singular ceremony in 2009 the organization has grown to do more than 70 this year.

Shaun Herron, USAG Fort George G. Meade Public Affairs