05/30/2026
As Military Appreciation Month comes to a close, the Delaware National Guard was proud to support the 15th Annual Our Community Salutes of Delaware Enlistee Recognition Ceremony, recognizing members of the Class of 2026 who have chosen to serve our nation through military service on May 12, 2026 at Clayton Hall on the campus of the University of Delaware.
The ceremony celebrated not only the students preparing to wear the uniform, but also the families, educators, mentors and community partners who helped them reach this milestone. Organizations such as USAA, Comcast, The Boeing Company, Navy Federal Credit Union, American Military University, Lions Clubs International, and many others continue to invest in service members and military families, making programs like this possible and demonstrating their commitment to those who serve.
Attendees heard from two Delaware National Guard members whose careers reflect the many opportunities military service can provide. Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Epps shared lessons in leadership, perseverance and service drawn from her experiences in the Delaware Army National Guard, while Airman Fedorkowicz offered a perspective from the Delaware Air National Guard’s firefighting community.
A special thank you to veteran Gary Dawson, whose vision and dedication have made Our Community Salutes of Delaware a lasting tradition. Through his leadership, hundreds of Delaware students preparing to enter military service have been recognized and celebrated before beginning their next chapter.
As we conclude Military Appreciation Month, we are reminded that service starts long before a recruit ships to training. It begins with a decision to serve, is strengthened by family and community support, and continues through leaders like those recognized during this ceremony.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026, and thank you for choosing a life of service.
For additional photos please visit the DNG Flickr page: https://www.flickr.com/gp/delawarenationalguard/9vwR3QZ3L6
