Public Health graduate answers call to serve, participates in Army Cadet Commands national commissioning ceremony

The U.S. Army Cadet Command held a virtual commissioning ceremony on Friday for more than 1,100 cadets across the country who are part of the Army’s ROTC Class of 2020.

While most of these cadets participated in the program from their own colleges and universities, a select few had the prestigious honor of joining the Secretary of the Army, Ryan D. McCarthy, in person at the Pentagon while still observing social distancing during the ceremony. One of those cadets was Mary Catherine Treuting, who just graduated magna cum laude from Marymount last month with a degree in Public Health.

Though she joined the Army ROTC relatively late during her undergraduate studies in her junior year, the native of Warrenton, Va., left a significant mark on her battalion. ROTC officials said Treuting participated in any and every event she could, mentored MS1 cadets new to the program and served as Battalion XO while balancing her course load, a full-time job and two internships, not to mention playing midfielder for the Marymount Women’s Soccer team.

Now, she has completed the requirements to become a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

“I joined ROTC for the challenge,” Treuting said. “Growing up in an abundant military family, I saw the service of others and wanted to emulate it in my own way.”

Maj. Gen. John Evans, commander of the U.S. Army Cadet Command, described the national commissioning ceremony as a historic event that showcases the excellence of all of the new officers that participate.

“I’m honored to recognize these Americans who are the embodiment of People First – each has stepped up to selflessly serve their nation and wear the colors of the United States Army,” he said. “These outstanding patriots…are the authors of stories written by hard work, sound ethics and unshakeable integrity. As they raise their right hand and swear an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of this great nation, they represent less than one out of every thousand Americans – those who have served as United States military officers.”

“As commanding general of U.S. Army Cadet Command, I couldn’t be prouder of their dedication. As an American, I thank them for their commitment to service.”

Congratulations on your commission, Mary, and best of luck – we know you’ll make Marymount proud!

To watch the full Army ROTC National Commissioning Ceremony, click here.

Picture courtesy of the U.S. Army Cadet Command (ROTC) Facebook page.