Yale University this week recognized the Air Force, Naval, and Army ROTC graduates who now join the ranks of the U.S. armed services during the annual commissioning ceremony. During the celebration, held in Battell Chapel following the university’s annual Commencement on Monday, cadets and midshipmen from Yale College’s Class of 2026, as well as graduates from other nearby colleges, including the University of New Haven, Western Connecticut State University, and Quinnipiac, received their official appointments as military officers.
Kylyn Smith '26 (right), a Yale graduate from Columbus, Ohio, was commissioned as second lieutenant in the U.S. Space Force.
Photo by Allie Barton
New officers included one cadet who was commissioned as second lieutenant in the U.S. Army, one candidate who was commissioned as second lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps, seven midshipmen commissioned as ensigns in the U.S. Navy, 12 cadets commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Air Force, and one cadet commissioned as second lieutenant in the U.S. Space Force.“You are an inspiration to each of us, and I know you will serve our nation well — at a moment when our nation may need you more than ever,” said Col. Les Oberg, the Air Force ROTC commander at Yale. “You’re where you belong. Make us proud.”
