Jacksonville, AL – As originally reported by Brett Buckner of JSU’s Media Department, Jacksonville State University ROTC cadet Wesley Lacy has achieved the prestigious designation of Distinguished Military Graduate (DMG), an honor reserved for the top-performing cadets nationwide. Lacy ranks 97th out of 5,200 ROTC cadets across the country, reflecting his exceptional performance in academics, extracurriculars, and leadership.
The ranking is determined by the National Order of Merit List, which evaluates cadets based on factors such as GPA, participation in college teams, work experience, service hours, and leadership. A key component of the ranking is cadets’ performance at Advanced Camp, a rigorous 35-day training event held at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Advanced Camp is the pinnacle of leader development for ROTC cadets, designed to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
During Advanced Camp, Lacy earned the coveted Recondo Badge, awarded to the top-performing cadets at the training. This accomplishment further underscored his commitment and excellence.
“(It) validated the efforts that I have put in behind the scenes to help project my military career and future civilian job opportunities,” said Lacy, a senior nursing major. “Being a Distinguished Military Graduate will enhance my military career by helping me get the branch of officer I want when I graduate, as well as helping me on the civilian side by building my resume.”
Lacy is a fifth-generation soldier, continuing a proud family legacy of military service. His great-great-grandfather served in World War I, his great-grandfather in World War II and Korea, his grandfather in Vietnam and Desert Storm, his father in Operation Iraqi Freedom, and his oldest brother in Operation Enduring Freedom.
Lacy’s journey began in August 2020 when he enlisted as a Combat Medic to build a foundation in medicine. In 2022, he contracted with Jax State’s ROTC program, inspired by both his family history and a personal desire to serve his country.
“I wanted to and still want to serve my country and let that lineage live on,” Lacy said.
After graduation, Lacy will be commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Alabama National Guard. He plans to pursue a civilian career in emergency medicine, working in a hospital emergency department in Alabama or Georgia.
Reflecting on his ROTC experience, Lacy credits the program with offering invaluable opportunities, such as specialty training at Airborne School, and instilling a strong sense of resilience.
“I had many setbacks along the way after starting Jax State and ROTC, but in the end, it has all been worth it,” he said. “Upon graduation, I will get to have the civilian career I have dreamed of, have set my military career up for success, have met many great people along the way and built lifelong relationships.”
Lacy’s achievements exemplify the dedication and perseverance of Jax State ROTC cadets and serve as an inspiration to his peers.
