On May 17, 2026, six seniors from St. Bonaventure University celebrated a significant milestone as they were commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army. The ceremony took place at the university’s Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, followed by the Silver Dollar Salute, a heartfelt tradition where each new officer presents a silver dollar to the first soldier who salutes them. This moment often honors someone special in their journey.
These cadets were part of the Seneca Senior ROTC Battery, which includes students from multiple colleges like Alfred State College and the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.
Here are the newly minted second lieutenants:
Adam L. Batey from Leavenworth, Kansas, earned a master’s in Public Health and will serve in the Medical Service Corps. He had a strong leadership role as the cadet battalion commander. His brother, Sgt. William Batey, pinned his lieutenant bars.
Hunter C. Heck of Woodhull, New York, graduated with a History degree from Alfred University and will join the Idaho National Guard as a field artillery officer. His father pinned his bars, and his grandfather, a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer, rendered his first salute.
Lily K. Janik, a distinguished graduate from Alfred University, is now a military intelligence officer. Her academic background includes History, Political Science, and Global Studies. She was honored with pins from her siblings and her first salute came from a retired Army Sergeant.
Yanna K. Mott from Fredonia, New York, graduated in Criminology and will serve as a logistics officer. She has held several roles in the ROTC, including battalion logistics officer. Her first salute was given by a retired Sergeant First Class.
Chase J. Playfair, who studied Cybersecurity, becomes a cyber officer. A distinguished military graduate, he also served as command sergeant major. His parents pinned his bars, and his first salute was from a retired Marine.
Zayne M. Sturdevant from Wellsville, New York, graduating in Criminology, becomes an infantry officer in the Tennessee Army National Guard. His family celebrated by pinning his bars, and his fiancée rendered his first salute.
These cadets show the dedication and leadership that the ROTC program fosters. According to a 2023 study from the Association of Military Colleges and Universities of the United States, ROTC graduates are increasingly recognized for their leadership skills, with employers noting that these cadets often excel in both teamwork and problem-solving.
The journey to becoming an officer is challenging, but traditions like the Silver Dollar Salute remind us of the bonds formed and sacrifices made along the way. As these new lieutenants step into their roles, they carry with them the support and pride of their communities, ready to face the responsibilities ahead.
St. Bonaventure University has been a pivotal institution in shaping leaders. Recognized for its commitment to transforming lives, it ranks high in value among regional universities, according to U.S. News & World Report. This university remains a beacon of hope and excellence, inspiring students to pursue not just academic success but a commitment to serving others.
Source link
press releases, university news
