Alcorn ROTC promotes four cadets to 2nd lieutenant during annual Commissioning Ceremony
The influence of parents is what shapes a child’s way of thinking. For Woodville, Mississippi native Daylon Broadway, the example his parents set is the reason for his success.
“My father inspired me to join the Army,” said Broadway, who will earn a bachelor’s degree in sports management at Saturday’s 2023 Spring Commencement Ceremony. “He served over 14 years and did three tours in Iraq. I admired my father in his Army uniform and wanted to be like him. My mother always told me that if I wasn’t going to try my best at something, then there was no need to try. So, I learned early that I couldn’t give minimal effort and expect great results. Her advice motivated me to be the best and achieve my goals.”
Broadway is one of four students promoted to 2nd lieutenant in the U. S. Army during Alcorn State University’s annual Commissioning Ceremony Friday, May 12, at the historic Oakland Memorial Chapel.
The ceremony culminated their work in Alcorn’s Department of Military Sciences. Te’Andre Freeman, a Hazlehurst, Mississippi native who will earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology, praised the program for teaching him to be a leader.
“Alcorn’s Army ROTC program has stirred me away from toxic behaviors,” said Freeman. “The battalion’s leadership has molded me into a soldier who could become a great leader. ROTC has given me the foundation as well as tools to be proficient at any task.”
Being promoted is a moment that these young cadets have dreamed about since they stepped onto campus. Lamont Ford, a Detroit, Michigan native who will earn a bachelor’s degree in general studies, feels privileged to climb the military ranks.
“It’s an honor,” said Ford. “This accomplishment means everything, and it’s something that I’ve always dreamed about achieving. Reaching this goal took many long and sleepless nights and hard work. This journey has prepared me to critically think, problem solve, and lead soldiers.”
Alcorn provided the cadets with an experience to remember. Destiny Hohoabu, a Tyler, Texas native who will earn a bachelor’s degree in applied sciences with a concentration in biomedical engineering, appreciates her journey at Alcorn.
“Alcorn provided me with a cultural experience I know I’d never get at any other school,” said Hohoabu. “The cadets and I worked well together. Our teamwork was on point. We all had our strengths and weaknesses. Whatever someone lacked or struggled with, another could pick up and help. My family, friends, a few faculty members, and, most importantly, my faith in God motivated me to push and continue. Trusting God got me through my challenges. I’m grateful for my experience.”
