Ceremony Honored New Recruits In Lafayette

The Inaugural High School Senior Enlistee Recognition Ceremony to honor military recruits was held Saturday at the Petroleum Club, sponsored by the Our Community Salutes organization of Acadiana.

Several high school seniors who have joined the military forces on the Delayed Entry Program were saluted today by dignitaries and former and current members of the armed forces.

Rudy Bourg, retired Army Master Sergeant, says "we want to let these young men and women know how honorable it is to serve one's country.  We want to thank them for their patriotism, for answering their call to duty, and we want to thank their families for standing behind that decision."

Guest speakers included Captain Kevin Brummett, Commander of the Lafayette Recruiting Company for the Unites States Army; Ms. Mary Nuss, Blue Star Mothers of America; Staff Sergeant Heath Stoute, LA Army National Guard; Major Greg Saloom, US Army Reserves; Bishop Stanley Senegal, US Air Force, Retired; and Congressman Charles Boustany.

It was a traditional military ceremony, complete with the entrance of the dignitaries/guest speakers, presentation of the Colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, etc.

One part of the ceremony that really blew me away was the Lafayette High School's Choir and their performance of the National Anthem!!  I have seen hundreds of hockey games, basketball games, football games, etc, and truly, without a doubt, it was THE best performance of our National Anthem that I have ever heard.  Ever.  Period.  Better than Whitney Houston's version.  Kudos to you, Lafayette High School Choir Members!!!

I was honored to emcee this event, and I expressed your gratitude to these young men and women as they took the oath to defend your United States of America.