JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – At Ike Skelton Training Site, Missouri National Guard Headquarters, a U.S. Army brigadier general raised his right hand to recite the oath of office. One of the University of Central Missouri's Reserve Officer Training Corps distinguished graduates, Chance Cumpton, stood at attention, right hand raised, awaiting his father's instruction.
"I, Chance Cumpton… do solemnly swear … that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America …"
Brig. Gen. Levon E. Cumpton, the adjutant general of the Missouri National Guard, commissioned his son Chance as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army during a video teleconference, May 8, 2020.
"Ceremonies are always a great opportunity to recognize Teammates," Brig. Gen. Cumpton said. Just so happens this one was extra special to not only be given the opportunity to address all the cadets of UCM ROTC 2020 commissioning class, but to give the officer commissioning oath to our own son."
Chance completed his ROTC curriculum at The University of Central Missouri, where he was commissioned after receiving a bachelor's degree in occupational safety management.
"It's a blessing, and countless opportunities are in the future," Chance said. "Not just for me, but for all the second lieutenants who have just been commissioned. I'm very excited for the next chapter."
Chance mentioned how his father's 30 years of military service had a substantial impact on his decision to pursue a military career. He said he never felt pressured to follow in his father's footsteps.
"He has supported everything that I have done so far in life, and he continues to support me," Chance said. "He impacted my commissioning by being a constant mentor and providing a great foundation for me in all aspects of life."
Brig. Gen. Cumpton, who commissioned through the Wentworth Military Academy Reserve Officer Training Corps program, said he looks forward to seeing his son succeed as a Soldier.
"Winning couldn't feel any better," Brig. Gen. Cumpton said. "I appreciate Lt. Col. Bryan Vaden, the ROTC Professor of Military Science at UCM, giving me the opportunity to address the commissioning class and making the ceremony happen via technology. Another great day."
Chance had his rank pinned on by his father, Brig. Gen. Cumpton and his mother, Linda. Next, he will report to Fort Benning, Ga., to begin the Infantry Basic Officer Leader Course.
"I could not have asked for a better role model than my father," newly commissioned 2nd Lt. Cumpton said.