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| 2009 Bison Military Ball ~ by C/CPT Roy Montgomery |
| Besides spring break, Howard University Army ROTC Cadets have one other major social event to look forward to during their spring semester: military ball. This year’s Bison Military Ball incorporated the “Year of Change” theme and was the largest military ball in Bison recorded history. On March 7, 2009 some 190 soldiers, military leaders, and friends of the Bison Battalion joined the Howard Cadet Corps at the Renaissance Hotel in Washington DC to listen to the inspirational words of MG Rodney O. Anderson and to bid farewell to our departing cadre. Bison Military Ball has become a trademark event where the traditions and heritage of the military are seen firsthand. From toasting various commands to witnessing the retirement of a soldier, the event serves as a practical exercise in officer professional development. Many cadets had never met so many officers before and were obviously delighted to know many were Bison Battalion commissionees. This year’s guest speaker was MG Rodney Anderson, Director of Force Management. General Anderson spoke on the power of change and how each officer must be an instrument in that change. He was vocal in the need for hope, dedication, and hard work as tools to positively bring about the change we wish to see. MG General Anderson was presented with a Bison bust that symbolized the Bison Battalion and its continued dedication towards providing the future officers of America’s land force. This year’s military ball also served as an evening to say goodbye to our departing cadre. LTC Williams and MAJ Shackell will be leaving this year and the battalion showed their affection through several gifts of appreciation for their sacrifice, dedication, and steadfast support of the Bison Cadet Corps. The night also served as the culminating event of a soldier’s career. Master Sergeant Zaifuddin H. Graves, the Corps’ Senior Military Instructor, was retired after 25 years of active duty service. As a testament to his service, MSG Graves was presented the Legion of Merit, the Army’s second highest peacetime award. The final segment of the evening was dedicated to dancing and socializing. It was another memorable event for the Bison Battalion and extended family. Lastly, we wouldn’t have been able to make this night possible without the contributions and support from our friends. We’d like to thank BAE Systems, GWC AUSA, AM General, Drum Inc, Renaissance Washington DC Hotel, Best Buy, 2LT Sherita Young (go ordnance!), and the Peay family for your generous contributions. As well, we’d like to thank all the alumni and friends who also contributed. |
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