Female officer from Quirino, topped the new batch of Army 2nd Lieutenants

24 sep 2018 OPC 68 cover

FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila– 2nd Lieutenant Karen Joy A. Marquez graduated with top honors, in the Officer Preparatory Course (OPC) “Centurion Virtus” Class 68 -2018, Friday, September 21, 2018 held at the Officer Candidate School (OCS), TRADOC, Camp O’ Donnell, Capas,Tarlac.

The 86 new lieutenants anchored their solidarity in their class motto from the Latin word “Centurion” meaning professional officer while “Victus” denotes valor, excellence and worth. The six-month continuing education of these young officers is the gateway to improve their character, competence, and intellect prior to active field duty deployment.

The top of the class, 2nd Lieutenant Karen Joy A. Marquez is a graduate of Bachelor of Arts Major in English from Province of Quirino. She received the Secretary of National Defense Saber award and plaque for recognition including a 45 cal. pistol from the Army Chief as a token for her admirable achievement for dominating the 86 strong members of “Centurion Virtus” that is composed of 10 female and 76 male officers.

“Joining the Army has always been my dream. This is my way to help my parents and improve our living conditions. But more than that, I am proud and honored that I could now perform one of the dignified ways to lead and serve our country,” Marquez said.

Lt. Gen. Rolando Joselito D. Bautista, Chief of the Army, the Guest of Honor and Speaker, felt an air of melancholy during his speech since this would be the last graduation ceremony he could attend in view of the fact that he is scheduled to bow-out from the active military service.

In his remarks, he encouraged the new lieutenants and reminded them of the cutting edge value of the sacrifices of fallen soldiers and those wounded that pave-way to liberate Marawi City from terrorists.

Lt. Gen. Bautista also urged the graduates to be firm in their commitment and decision to serve the nation with finest service, always follow the chain of command, and remain loyal to the flag and constitution.

The new young leaders were also given the book The Complete 101 Collection author John C. Maxwell to serve as their inspiration and reference.#

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