SSHS Manta Ray Battalion conducts annual change of command ceremony

A change of command is a military tradition that signifies the seamless transition of full authority and responsibility from one commanding officer to another.

Saipan Southern High School’s Manta Ray Battalion conducted its annual change of command and promotion ceremony for the incoming battalion commander last May 17 from 9:30am to 10am.

The Manta Ray Battalion was in a formation in front of Saipan Southern High School’s Manta Ray Monument. The ceremony started with the battalion color guard presenting the colors while the national and CNMI anthems were sung by the Manta Music Club.

The newly promoted battalion commander, C/LTC Riana Vicente, received the colors after passing through the C/CSM John Brondo, the outgoing commander, C/LTC Mechaella De Ramos, and the SSHS principal Vince Dela Cruz.

The change of command ceremony commemorated the outgoing battalion commander, De Ramos, relinquishing her position to the incoming battalion commander, Vicente.

De Ramos was given a plaque recognizing her dedication, commitment, and strong leadership skills while she commanded the Manta Ray Battalion during SY 2023-2024.

Her successor, Vicente, will be the next to light the way for the Manta Ray Battalion into an aspiring path for the SY 2024-2025.

Both outgoing and incoming battalion commanders celebrated the occasion by cutting a cake shared with the other cadets.

The incoming Manta Ray officers would like thank the incoming battalion commander’s parents for attending this memorable occasion. They also like to thank Dela Cruz, SSHS vice principal Arisa Sakai-Peters, and FMS principal Cherlyn Osung for constantly supporting and guiding the cadets.

The Manta Ray Battalion’s Senior Army Instructor, CSM (Ret.) Richard Basa recognized the incoming SY 2024-2025 staff and celebrated with the cadets and student leaders who supported the Mighty Manta Ray Battalion.