Thirty Micronesians (FSM citizens) to become soldiers in the US Army

FSMIS (June 13, 2013): Thirty young men and women from the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) took the Oath of Enlistment into the United States Army earlier today during a ceremony held at the US Embassy in Pohnpei.

This was one of the largest, if not the largest, enlistment group according to a staff from the FSM Department of Foreign Affairs who attended the ceremony.

After welcoming the attendees of the ceremony, US Ambassador Doria Rosen spoke of the "unique bond" between the FSM and the United States, saying, "this ceremony reminds us again that the US and the FSM enjoy a really unique bond, one that goes beyond the formal treaties and commitment".

"Citizens of our countries share the values of democracy, rule of law, and human rights."

The thirty young "future soldiers" came from Pohnpei, Kosrae and Yap were recruitment activities by Army personnel have been occurring and the military test conducted.

The ASVAB test has been reinstated to also take place in Chuuk as a result of collaboration between the Military Entrance Processing Station, the US Embassy and Chuuk State.

Speaking on behalf of FSM President Manny Mori and the National Government, Chief of Staff Leo Falcam Jr., himself a veteran of the US Marine Corps, shared a few words of respect and encouragement to the young men and women about to become US soldiers in the US Army.

"What you may not realize at the moment is that you have chosen to belong to an elite organization whose purpose is to serve something greater than yourself. That is an extremely honorable choice. And a choice that you should be proud of. Please know that all of us here today, along with the rest of your fellow FSM citizens, respect and support the choice that you have made."

Mr. Falcam also stressed the pride FSM has in the "sons and daughters" who have made this decision.

"From our small island nation, we take pride in our sons' and daughters' personal interest and commitment to serve in the US military to contribute in their own way to global peace, to democracy, to security and to liberty."

Also speaking to the new recruits was MSG Joshua Delancy (tallest in above photo) from the US Army Portland Recruiting Battalion who reminded them not to forget to smile, laugh and have fun.

Not long after the speeches are history in the youngsters' memory, they will soon be engulfed in the rigors of training that will make them strong, ARMY STRONG.  Some might give up, some will surely go on as witnessed in previous waves of Micronesians now serving in the US military for a number of years.