President Donald Trump presided over a swearing-in ceremony for dozens of new recruits and re-enlisting soldiers at a Saturday evening parade celebrating the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday.
In the United States Army, such ceremonies are typically conducted by commissioned officers or warrant officers – but that is not always the case. When Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer reenlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve after a 15-year break in service, it was Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth who conducted his swearing-in ceremony. And as the sitting Commander in Chief, President Donald Trump took the opportunity to conduct the ceremony that took place on Saturday.
“Special moment as Soldiers renew their oath to serve and future Soldiers take the oath led by the Commander-in-Chief @POTUS #Army250 birthday parade,” the U.S. Army shared video of the ceremony.
WATCH:
Special moment as Soldiers renew their oath to serve and future Soldiers take the oath led by the Commander-in-Chief @POTUS during #Army250 birthday parade. https://t.co/fSeVYPtfGK
— U.S. Army (@USArmy) June 15, 2025
“Mr. President, 1st Sergeant Norton, reporting for duty, Sir. Ready to commence the ceremony as directed,” a 1st Sergeant wearing a 101st Airborne patch said as he turned the ceremony over to the president, and he administered the oath of enlistment.
“I, _____ , 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; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God.”
“Congratulations!” Trump said as the soldiers completed the oath. “Congratulations. And welcome to the United States Army and have a great life! Thank you very much, have a great life. Thank you.”
“Welcome to the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen. Make us proud,” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted along with video from the ceremony.
Welcome to the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen.
Make us proud. https://t.co/GUkshbzM2U
— Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (@SecDef) June 15, 2025