Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M. -- Twelve military applicants took the oath of enlistment in a powerful ceremony during the 2025 Kirtland Air Fiesta on May 31. The event was made possible through a partnership between Albuquerque MEPS, Kirtland Air Force Base, and the Viper Demo Team from Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, creating a memorable moment for the future service members and the thousands in attendance.
Set against the backdrop of F-16 fighter jets, the applicants were sworn in by Maj. Taylor Hiester, commander of the Viper Demonstration Team from Shaw AFB. The Viper team was on-site to perform during the weekend air show, and the ceremony added a meaningful highlight to the festivities.
The applicants who took their oath are preparing to join the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Army:
U.S. Navy
- Makenna Blanton
- Carlos Cortez
U.S. Marine Corps
- Dylan Herreraaragon
- Jose Nieto
- Euniquek Waley
- Aiden Martinez
- Melody Rudolfo
- Adrianna Cervantes
- Maricruz Renteria
U.S. Army
- Hailey Robinson
- Kaitlyn Barker
- Timothy Emel
The ceremony served as a proud reminder of the next generation of Americans stepping up to serve. Congratulations to these future warriors as they begin their journey in defense of our nation.