Bulldog Battalion Commissions 18 Officers at Spring 2026 Commencement

Eighteen cadets were commissioned as second lieutenants through Bowie State University's Army ROTC program during the Spring 2026 ROTC Commissioning Ceremony on May 22 in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center. This marked a culminating moment of achievement as the newest officers officially stepped into lives of leadership and service.

Four cadets — 2nd Lt. Brandon Ako, 2nd Lt. Joshua Jacobs, 2nd Lt. Kishan Pachhai and 2nd Lt. Luciano Saavedra — earned the distinction of Distinguished Military Graduate. The Army awards this honor to the top 20% of commissioning cadets nationwide based on a comprehensive evaluation that includes academic performance, physical fitness, leadership assessments, Cadet Summer Training performance and overall officer potential.

Lt. Col. Roger A. Dominique, professor of military science, said the new officers will serve across multiple Army branches and specialties, underscoring the continued growth and excellence of Bowie State’s Army ROTC program.

“The ceremony represents the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice by some of our finest students,” said Dominique. “Through the Bulldog Battalion, the university demonstrates a strong commitment to developing leaders of character prepared to serve something far greater than themselves.”

Retired Lt. Gen. David Wilson, a senior Army sustainment leader, delivered the keynote address and emphasized leadership development and mentorship for the next generation of Army officers.

Dominique also highlighted a key moment: Medal of Honor recipient retired Col. Paris D. Davis attended the ceremony, adding special significance to the occasion. Davis, a legendary figure in Army history, reminded the audience of the courage, sacrifice and service the newly commissioned officers now uphold.

“We’re incredibly proud of these new second lieutenants and confident they’re ready to lead soldiers with competence, humility and integrity. The future of the Bulldog Battalion remains exceptionally bright as we continue building disciplined, resilient and service-oriented leaders for our nation.”