Lance Spear, Chris McLennand and Amber Gensler are three members of the ROTC being commissioned to second lieutenant today at

the Pond Pavilion.

During the ceremony, ROTC members will take an oath of office swearing to defend the Constitution, which lays out their duties and responsibilities. Orders are read and family members or friends pin the new rank on the cadet. This symbolizes the help the ROTC members have had getting to this point.

The sergeant will approach the new lieutenant to give the first official salute. The salute will be followed by the sergeant giving a silver dollar to the new lieutenant. This symbolizes the special bond between the sergeant and the officer, Lt. Col. Knotts said.

When an ROTC member is commissioned to second lieutenant, they are entrusted with the lives of others. Some second lieutenants may be responsible for 20 to 50 men and women, depending on their unit, said Lance Spear, one of cadets being commissioned. This responsibility is followed by the possibility of having to go to war.

Being in the military has been a dream for Spear since high school. For Spear, being commissioned to second lieutenant is an exciting, but nerve-racking time.

“It has given me a sense of pride,” Spear said. “I am pretty happy, but a little bit nervous. I still have a lot to learn.”

Spear also feels as though the army has helped him look towards the future.

“No one plans like the army,” Spear said. A lot of people like potential employees who have been in the army. The army helps give someone good leadership, people and planning skills. All these things are attractive for a possible employer.”

During high school Chris McLennand, one of the cadets being commissioned, knew he wanted to persue a leadership career.

“I felt in high school that I wanted to do something bigger than myself,” McLennand said. “I wanted to lead people. I felt if I didn’t do this (join the military) I would look back and regret it.”

McLennand plans on staying in the military and making it his career.

“I do see in the future moving into active duty and making this my full time career,” McLennand said.

Along with Spear, McLennand is also enthusiastic about being commissioned to second lieutenant.

“I’m excited! I feel like I have been well prepared to take up a leadership position,” McLennand said. “I am just beginning on my career in the military. However, I feel well prepared and educated on how to lead other soldiers.”

ROTC looks for individuals coming to college who are looking for a challenge and a leadership position, McLennand said.

Samantha Bilharz can be reached at 581-7942 or

slbilharz@eiu.edu.