A few days ago The Puerto Rico State Guard (State Defense Force), history graduated and commissioned their first Officer Candidate School (OCS) Class of 2025. Class 25-1 marks the first cohort of Officers formally trained and graduated under the newly established requirements set by the Adjutant General of Puerto Rico (Senior National Guard General). The ceremony represented not just a personal triumph for the cadets, but a milestone in the evolution and professionalization of the Puerto Rico State Guard.
The candidates of OCS Class 25-1 completed six months of demanding physical training, academic study, and leadership development designed to forge strong, capable leaders for the force. Their perseverance and dedication were evident throughout the process, culminating in their commissioning as Second Lieutenants. These new officers now bear the responsibility to lead with honor, serve with integrity, and uphold the values of the Puerto Rico State Guard in every mission they face. Their accomplishment elevates the operational readiness and leadership strength of the State Guard and sets a high standard for future candidates.
This graduation also places Puerto Rico in alignment with a growing nationwide trend among State Defense Forces. Across the country, every active State Defense Force operates an Officer Candidate School program modeled closely after the U.S. National Guard’s OCS curriculum. These programs ensure that State Defense Force Officers possess the leadership competencies, military understanding, and strategic thinking required for modern missions. In recent decades, State Defense Forces have taken on increasingly complex roles, often operating in joint missions alongside the National Guard. In many instances, State Defense Force Officers and NCOs were given command roles over National Guard troops to successfully complete critical missions. One such example of this was The New York Guard Logistical Mission during Covid-19.
As global tensions continue to rise, particularly in Europe and throughout the world, the United States has been preparing for the potential deployment of its armed forces overseas. A well-trained and capable State Defense Force becomes an essential asset in maintaining homeland defense, providing continuity of operations, and ensuring mission success during emergencies. The graduation of OCS Class 25-1 is not only a proud chapter for Puerto Rico but a symbol of the growing strength, professionalism, and readiness of State Defense Forces nationwide.
Last July 12, 2025, we witnessed a historic moment for the State Command of the Puerto Rico National Guard with the graduation and promotion ceremony of the Class OCS 25-1. This class becomes the first promotion of the Officer Candidate School (OCS) of the State Command, officially formed according to the requirements and regulations established by the Assistant General of Puerto Rico and the Commander General of the State Command.
After six months of hard work, rigorous training, intensive study and leadership training, the candidates have demonstrated their commitment to excellence and service. This achievement not only validates his individual effort but also elevates the professional level of our state military force.
Congratulations to the new Second Lieutenants for achieving this goal. Starting today, they carry on their shoulders the responsibility of leading with integrity, guiding firmly, and representing the State Command with dignity in every mission.
Congratulations to the OCS Class 25-1 for making history!.
On July 12, 2025, we witnessed a historic milestone for the Puerto Rico State Guard Command with the graduation and commissioning ceremony of OCS Class 25-1. This class marks the first official cohort of the Officer Candidate School (OCS) within the State Command, fully formed in accordance with the requirements and regulations established by the Adjutant General of Puerto Rico and the Commanding General of State Command.
After six months of intense work, rigorous training, academic study, and leadership development, these candidates have demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence and service. Their achievement reflects not only personal dedication but also a significant step forward in the professionalization of our State Guard force.
We congratulate our newly commissioned second lieutenants for reaching this important milestone. From this day forward, they carry the responsibility to lead with integrity, guide with purpose, and proudly represent the State Command in every mission they undertake.
Source: Puerto Rico State Guard
