West Point graduates 972, most headed to war

[unhappycamper]

West Point graduates 972, most headed to war
By Michael Hill - The Associated Press
Posted : Saturday May 31, 2008 17:17:57 EDT

WEST POINT, N.Y. — Graduating West Point cadets were saluted by a top Army official Saturday for their willingness to serve during deadly conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Army Secretary Pete Geren told 972 graduating cadets that 11 West Point graduates have died in service to their country since last May’s graduation ceremony. Geren, the Army’s top civilian official, lauded the graduates’ courage and thanked them for defending the “transcendent” ideals of the Constitution.

“There’s always a personal cost in your profession of arms. Your willingness to bear the cost ennobles you, your calling and this gathering,” Geren said.

West Point graduates become second lieutenants in the Army and most are expected to serve in Iraq or Afghanistan.

Geren spoke in academy’s football stadium under gray skies that gave way to rain before the traditional hat toss. He told the cadets they now have their chance to make history like other West Point graduates, listing the names of famous generals from Ulysses Grant to David Petraeus.


Rest of article at: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/05/ap_westpointgraduation_053108/