HOUSTON - Approximately 100 future Navy Sailors from across Navy Recruiting District (NRD) Houston rose their right hand and swore to defend the U.S. Constitution from all enemies during a joint service military swear-in ceremony at the Houston Rodeo’s Armed Forces Appreciation Day, Wed., March 4.
Thousands of military supporters and rodeo fans witnessed the soon-to-be Sailors take the Oath of Enlistment with nearly 300 other future service members from each branch of the military.
“The recruiting mission is focused on finding the best and brightest men and women to serve in America's Navy,” said NRD Houston’s Commanding Officer Cmdr. Rick Evangelista. “It was exciting to see the quality young men and women our Houston recruiters brought together and see them - as a team - take their oath to protect our country. This is their first step toward living a life we in the military have always treasured - a life of honor, courage and commitment. To see this happen at the Houston Rodeo as they were honoring our military members was an absolute joy. I couldn't have been more proud.”
Recruiters and future Sailors were honored with free tickets to both the rodeo and to the following concert later that evening. Additionally, they each received free barbeque, ticket books filled with free rides and discounted food coupons and a smile and handshake from thousands attending the ceremony, thanking them for their service.
“I was so proud,” said future Sailor Yhwh Ellis from The Woodlands, Texas. “When I raised my right hand, the only thing I could think was how right it felt - to join the Navy. There are moments during the recruiting process where you ask yourself ‘is this the correct choice’ and when the veterans came up and shared their experiences, I knew I made the right decision.”
The Navy’s goal is to hire the best men and women to accomplish today's missions and meet tomorrow's challenges. Navy Recruiting District Houston seeks out quality candidates throughout the surrounding areas, helping the Navy meet their hiring goals while also conducting volunteer activities designed to help give back the city of Houston and the surrounding communities they serve.
NRD Houston consists of integrity-based leadership focused on spirited teamwork and a standing commitment toward excellence.
Date Taken: | 03.04.2015 |
Date Posted: | 03.05.2015 16:52 |
Story ID: | 156099 |
Location: | HOUSTON, TEXAS, US |
Web Views: | 372 |
Downloads: | 0 |
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