Bulldog Battalion Commissions Four New Officers in the U.S. Army

The Alabama A&M University ROTC Bulldog Battalion celebrated a proud milestone Thursday as four cadets were commissioned as second lieutenants into the United States Army during the Fall 2024 Commissioning Ceremony at the Knight Center.

Major General Gavin A. Lawrence, U.S. Army Material Command Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics and Operations (G-3) delivered the keynote address.  A graduate of the United States Military Academy, Lawrence has held pivotal roles at the Pentagon and around the globe. His service record includes deployments to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom and three deployments to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Lawrence is a highly decorated officer, honored for his exceptional leadership and dedication.

During his remarks, Lawrence praised the leadership of Alabama A&M’s Professor of Military Science, LTC Early Howard Jr., and commended the Bulldog Battalion for commissioning over 1,000 officers since its founding in 1971.

“We place the future of our military in your hands,” said Lawrence. “Because of you and the cadre here, our cadets are more than prepared to be all they can be. I also want to extend my gratitude to the families of these cadets. Your unwavering support and the values you’ve instilled in them are the foundation of the leaders they will become.”

Lawrence also offered an inspirational challenge to the cadets. “Thank you for your willingness to serve our Army and our nation during this critical time,” he said. “Less than one percent of Americans serve in uniform across all branches of the armed forces. Today, you commit to leading the best Army in the world. I challenge you to be servant leaders - leaders who are dedicated to developing and supporting the soldiers under their charge. Your commitment to their morale, welfare, and discipline will define your success as leaders.”

Following his address, Lawrence administered the Oath of Office to the four cadets, officially commissioning them as second lieutenants:

• 2nd Lt. Nathaniel Bartee – A University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) engineering graduate from Huntsville, Alabama, Bartee will serve on active duty in the Quartermaster Corps.
• 2nd Lt. Aaron Gibbs – An Alabama A&M University electrical engineering graduate from Birmingham, Alabama, Gibbs will serve in the Army Reserve with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
• 2nd Lt. Gabriel Ramirez – A UAH nursing graduate from Huntsville, Alabama, Ramirez will serve on active duty in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps.
• 2nd Lt. Kayla Thompson – An Alabama A&M University business management graduate from Gurley, Alabama, will serve on active duty in the Quartermaster Corps.

In a poignant moment, family members of the newly commissioned officers pinned their rank insignia onto their uniforms, signifying their transition to commissioned officers. Each new second lieutenant then received their First Salute, a revered tradition in which a family member or close friend who is also a military service member delivers the first salute to the new officer.

In his closing remarks, LTC Howard expressed his pride in the new officers. “I want to thank you not for what you have done, but for what you are about to do for your country,” said Howard. “We congratulate you and we are proud of all you will achieve.” Howard concluded with a quote from General Douglas MacArthur. ‘“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others.”’

(Photo L-R) LTC Early Howard Jr., 2nd Lt. Nathaniel Bartee, 2nd Lt. Aaron Gibbs, 2nd Lt. Gabriel Ramirez, 2nd Lt. Kayla Thompson, Major General Gavin A. Lawrence