In The Navy

Derrick Simons graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md., on Friday, May 24. Graduates numbering 1,047 marched through the rain to the 163rd commencement exercises that were held at the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium to be sworn in as the newest members of the Navy.

President Barack Obama gave the commencement address, challenging the men and women to hold on to their values they have been taught through this difficult and trying time.

The graduating class consisted of 80 percent men and 20 percent women. There were 14 exchange students and 31 percent of the class were minorities, making this the most diverse graduating class in the history of the Navy.

Simons received his commission as an ensign, which is the first rank awarded to an officer. The highest rank he served while at Annapolis was first regimental operational officer, which is third highest in the regiment. He received a bachelor of science degree in astrospace engineering. He will return to Charleston, S.C., for six months to 2½ years for multiple classes, the first of which is a six-month Nuclear Power School.

Linette and Kerry Uchtman and Mikaela flew to Annapolis on Wednesday to attend Simons’ pre- graduating activities and then the graduation. They stayed for several additional days, enjoying the sights.

Eileen and Rachael Traeholt, joined by Karen Waller of Plentywood, flew down on Thursday to attend the ceremonies. While there, they stayed with a cousin, Barb Kline. They spent time afterwards doing some sightseeing and visiting with an aunt, Ruth Coulter, and cousin Allen Coulter and other relatives.

An open house barbecue was held at Don and Eileen Traeholt’s on Saturday evening to celebrate Simons’ and also Mikaela’s graduation accomplishments. Close to 70 guests came to congratulate the two young people.

Chance M. Rauscher, son of former Glasgow residents Ryan and Elodie Rauscher, graduated from the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, M.D., on May 24 and was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy. Ensign Rauscher successfully completed four years of intensive academic, physical, and professional training, resulting in a bachelor of science degree with a major in aerospace engineering. Rauscher has been assigned to Naval Air Station Pensacola located in Pensacola, Fla., where he will continue training as a Navy pilot.

Rauscher is a 2009 graduate of Glasgow High School.