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 on May 17, 2024, from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
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, Mr. Vince Dela Cruz.
The change of command ceremony commemorated the outgoing battalion commander, C/LTC Mechaella De Ramos, relinquishing her position to the incoming battalion commander, C/LTC Riana Vicente.
C/LTC Mechaella 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, C/LTC Riana 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.
We thank the incoming battalion commander’s parents for attending this memorable occasion. We’d also like to thank SSHS Principal Vince Dela Cruz, SSHS Vice Principal Arisa Sakai-Peters, and FMS Principal Cherlyn Osung for constantly supporting and guiding our 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. Mega Hooah!
The Manta Ray Battalion cadets with SSHS officials and guests.
The incoming battalion commander, along with family and SSHS officials.
The promotion of the incoming Battalion Commander C/LTC Vicente, Riana by the SAI CSM (ret.) Richard Basa. Also in photo is her mother.
The incoming battalion commander receives the battalion colors from the battalion CSM, the outgoing battalion commander, and the SSHS principal.
The outgoing Battalion Commander C/LTC De Ramos, Mechaella holds her plaque as she poses for a photo with friends and SSHS officials.
C/2LT Baculod, Miyiel receives a Citizenship Award certificate during the awards ceremony.
C/SSG Roberto, Jeremiah receives a Superior Cadet certificate during the awards ceremony.
The outgoing and incoming commanders cut a cake with a saber.
The battalion cadets salute during the singing of the national and CNMI anthems.
