Diamond Promotion Ceremony Marks 101st Anniversary at CDH
September 13, 2024
The CDH community gathered for the Annual Diamond Promotion Ceremony on September 13, 2024, a tradition now in its 101st year. Master Sergeant Ken Peloski, CDH Army Instructor, opened the ceremony, acknowledging the significance of this historic event.
"The name of our ceremony comes from the diamond shape of the insignia worn on the uniform of the seniors we are promoting today," said Peloski. He went on to explain the significance of the diamond ranks, which include Cadet Colonel, Cadet Lieutenant Colonel, and Cadet Major, each marked by the number of diamonds worn on the cadets' shoulders.
Peloski took a moment to remind the audience of the historical roots of the event, noting that over a century ago, in November 1918, the Cretin High School Cadets and Band marched in their first parade to commemorate the end of the Great War. He then paid tribute to the first Cadet Commander, Cadet Major Mitchell Hogan, who led the Corps during that inaugural parade. Hogan set the standard for leadership that continues to inspire cadets today.
Col. Joe Scrocca, CDH Senior Army Instructor, acknowledged the presence of several former Raider Brigade Cadet Commanders, whose leadership and legacy have left a lasting impact on the program. The honored guests included:
- The Honorable Thomas Bibus '66
- Mr. Donald Geng '71
- Mr. Jeffrey Ritacco '77
- Mr. Paul Kotz '81
- Mr. Frederick Argir '82
- Brigadier General Timothy Kemp '88
- Ms. Erin Sullivan McKiel '97
- Lieutenant Colonel Brian Knutson '00
- Mr. Joseph Jenniges '12
- Mr. Robert P. Thames '78
- Thomas C. Parks '96
"The Raider Brigade would not be where it is today without your legacy of leadership," Scrocca said. "You are part of our history, and your presence here today is an inspiration to our next generation of Cadet leaders."