“This cadet overcame severe childhood hardship to stand on this stage,” General Thomas said.

“She refused to let her past dictate her future.”

He turned his head and looked straight at Rachel in the center seat of the front row.

Rachel smiled softly and pressed her hands together in her lap.

General Thomas turned back to the microphone.

“Graduating at the top of her class and earning the highest honors of the year, Officer Candidate Hannah Morgan.”

I stepped forward.