An Officer in the US Navy!

On Sunday, February 17th, I was commissioned a Lieutenant Junior Grade in the Navy. About 250 people stayed after the noon mass and were present as my recruiter, Lieutenant Mike Maher, swore me in. It was very exciting. I hadn't been that excited since my first mass here at St. Joe's!

Here are some pictures. Lt. Maher began by expressing his thanks for everyone that came. He said he expected just a few people so it was a bit overwhelming to see all the support. I appreciate the kind words he said about me.

 Then he swore me in by leading me in an oath:

"I, Patrick McPartland, having been appointed a Lieutenant Junior Grade in the United States Navy, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the office upon which I am about to enter. So help me God.”

After that, I was presented with a certificate stating that I had been appointed an officer by the President

Afterword, we have some light refreshments and many people congratulated me. I took some pictures with the Knights of Columbus Motorcycle Ministry members, whom I ride with. Then I gave them a blessing. My nephew, Brandon joined in some of the pictures.

I took some more pictures with my family, including my cousins Rosie and Rose.

Then some with mom and me....

Then a couple with me and Lt. Maher.

What a great event. People have been asking me about it the last few days. So many people support me in this journey. How awesome!