Midshipmen who successfully complete the NROTC program and earn the recommendation of the Professor of Naval Science are commissioned during graduation ceremonies at VMI. They are entitled immediately to the pay and allowances of their status as Navy Ensigns or Marine Corps Second Lieutenants.

For Navy Ensigns, the initial active duty assignment is determined by their service selection during senior year and will include professional schooling such as flight or nuclear power training, or service aboard ships, posts or stations throughout the world.

All Marine Second Lieutenants will be assigned to The Basic School at Quantico, Virginia for their initial training.

Within each branch of service, there are a variety of career opportunities.

The Ceremony

Commissioning and pin-on ceremonies are two of the most moving and inspirational events seen at any college or university. At VMI, commissioning may take place at the conclusion of the fall semester or at the most common time, during May graduation events.

During the commissioning ceremony, cadets hear from distinguished military leaders from the US Navy, US Marine Corps, or other speaker, and take the Oath of the Commissioned Officer. Cadets then gather and with family and friends where they select individuals, many times ROTC faculty, to pin their 2nd lieutenant's rank onto their uniforms.