New generation of Wisconsin Army Guard leaders commissioned

Sage words of advice accompanied the oath of office for nearly two dozen newly minted second lieutenants and warrant officers during a commissioning ceremony Oct. 10 at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin.

“As you embark as a leader, always remember that it is a privilege to serve,” said Col. Gregory Hirsch, commander of the Wisconsin Army National Guard’s 426th Regional Training Regiment, which conducts the officer candidate and warrant officer candidate courses. “In an ever-changing and volatile world, you’ll face daunting challenges. You have my faith that you’ll face these head-on.”

Several months of rigorous leadership challenges, grueling academic requirements and demanding field problems yielded 13 officers and 10 warrant officers. Retired Brig. Gen. Dominic Cariello, guest speaker for the ceremony, recalled his days in officer candidate school more than three decades ago, and thanked family members for supporting their Soldier throughout the course.

Continue reading at http://dma.wi.gov/dma/news/2015news/15146.asp.