Five months after the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa commissioned their first sailor, they celebrated another milestone on May 13, as three naval officers earned a commission from its program.
Donning their caps and gowns and proudly displaying their diplomas, Zachary Barto, Chase Roche and Jacob Simmons achieved the rank of ensign in the U.S. Navy during a ceremony held aboard the Battleship Missouri. Their commissioning ceremony served as a culmination of rigorous training and preparation as well as a testament to their commitment to serve their country.
“Another spectacular moment for the UH NROTC as we commission our three newest ensigns in the United States Navy. We are excited for your journey that awaits!” said Commanding Officer Paul “Veg” Bandini.
On May 11, prior to their commissioning, Barto, Roche and Simmons graduated with their respective bachelor’s degrees. Their achievements are not only sources of pride for themselves, but also for their families and the Koa O Ke Kai Battalion.
Reflecting on their journey, each newly commissioned officer expressed honor at being among the first to graduate from the university’s pioneering NROTC program. Barto will serve as a naval submarine officer upon completing nuclear power school in Charleston, South Carolina. Roche will serve as a naval pilot and Simmons will serve as a naval flight officer after both completing their naval aviation training in Florida.
The commissioning of Barto, Roche and Simmons underscores the success and commitment of the NROTC program at the UH Mānoa in preparing future leaders for service in the U.S. Navy.
“Their exemplary dedication and leadership serve as inspirations to their peers and reflect the program’s unwavering dedication to excellence in training and education,” added Bandini.
