Dining In, December 2012
The Princeton University Tiger Battalion celebrated its annual Dining In Ceremony on 12/6/12 at the Trenton Country Club in West Trenton, NJ.
The Dining In is a military tradition dating back to 16th Century England, originating, not as a military function, but as a custom practiced in monasteries and at early universities. With the advent of the Officers' Mess, the British military establishment formally adopted the custom. The close association and camaraderie of Bruitish and American military forces during World Wars I and II led the United States Army likewise to adopt the Dining In as an integral part of the Regimental Mess, a tradition still practiced today.
The guest speaker was Mr. John Melkon who has been charged with building and leading the Center for the Study of Civil Military Operations at West Point since March of 2012. In his capacity he is responsible for facilitating the coordination, planning and execution of the strategic vision and mission for the Center. Mr. Melkon presented his address to 86 cadets and cadre.
LT Zarnke (center) gives the Invocation
LTC Peter Knight presents Cadet Petrenko with his branch insignia
LTC Peter Knight presents Cadet Snook with his branch insignia
Cadet Oddo receives his branch insignia
The MS IV Cadets receive applause after receiving their branch insignias