Intro
Experience the pride and patriotism of Navy OCS graduation. Discover the 7 most anticipated moments, from the ceremonial color guard to the final salute. Witness the transformation of candidates into officers. Get insider knowledge on what to expect, from OCS traditions to the emotional toll of the 12-week journey, commissioning, and more.
The day of the Navy OCS (Officer Candidate School) graduation is a momentous occasion, filled with pride, excitement, and a sense of accomplishment. As the newest officers in the United States Navy prepare to take on their new roles, their families, friends, and fellow sailors gather to celebrate their achievement. Here are 7 moments to expect at a Navy OCS graduation ceremony.
The March-In
The ceremony begins with the officer candidates marching into the venue, led by the OCS band. The candidates are dressed in their finest uniforms, and the atmosphere is filled with anticipation and pride. As they march in, the audience is filled with a sense of excitement, knowing that they are about to witness the culmination of the candidates' hard work and dedication.
The Invocation
The ceremony begins with an invocation, where a chaplain offers a prayer to bless the occasion and the new officers. This moment is a solemn reminder of the gravity of the oath that the candidates are about to take, and the responsibility that comes with serving in the United States Navy.
The Keynote Address
A distinguished guest speaker delivers a keynote address, congratulating the new officers and offering words of wisdom and encouragement. This moment is a highlight of the ceremony, as the speaker shares their own experiences and insights, inspiring the new officers to excel in their careers.
The Oath of Office
The candidates then take the oath of office, swearing to defend the Constitution of the United States and to obey the orders of the President and the officers appointed over them. This moment is a solemn and sacred commitment, marking the beginning of their journey as officers in the United States Navy.
The Commissioning
After taking the oath, the candidates are commissioned as ensigns in the United States Navy. This moment is a significant milestone, marking the official beginning of their careers as officers. The new ensigns are then presented with their commissions, which they will carry with them throughout their careers.
The Presentation of Awards
Awards and recognition are presented to the top performers in the class, including the honor graduate and the leadership award winners. This moment is a celebration of excellence, recognizing the hard work and dedication of the top candidates.
The Final Farewell
The ceremony concludes with a final farewell, as the new officers are dismissed and begin their new journey. This moment is a bittersweet reminder of the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, as the new officers embark on their careers in the United States Navy.
Navy OCS Graduation Image Gallery
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect at a Navy OCS graduation ceremony. We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the Navy OCS program, please feel free to ask.