(L-R: Mrs. Bundy, Dominik Cintron, Jennifer Matthews, Samuel Cummings, Mr. Light (back: Mr. Wiley)
There are signing days with ball caps, cameras and applause.
And then there are signing days where the choice is bigger than a team, bigger than a season, and bigger than the student sitting at the table.
On Thursday evening at Dyess Air Force Base, Wylie High School seniors were among the students honored during Military Signing Day, a special event recognizing young men and women who have committed to serve in the United States Armed Forces after graduation.
Around the room, families, military leaders, educators and community members gathered at white-clothed tables for dinner and celebration. Service members were dressed in their dress uniforms, adding to the sense of honor and importance in the room. Parents leaned in close. Students waited for their moment to walk forward, select the hat representing their branch of service, and publicly share the path they had chosen.
Opening remarks were given by Colonel Darren Damiani, who reminded the students that their commitment speaks to their character, courage and willingness to serve something greater than themselves.
Major Joshua Dishman of the 344th Recruiting Squadron followed with an encouraging message centered on character, teamwork and leadership. He reminded students that the oath is not the finish line, but the starting block.
For Wylie ISD, the evening was especially meaningful. Wylie High School students Dominik Cintron, Samuel Cummings, and Jennifer Matthews were recognized as part of the ceremony.
Samuel Cummings, who is joining the Air Force, said the military offers him a way to be part of something bigger than himself and to give direction to the skills and interests he already has. He will leave for basic training July 7.
(Samuel Cummings)
For Samuel, the Air Force has been part of the dream for a long time. His family said he has been set on the Air Force since elementary school. When asked if planes had anything to do with the decision, laughter broke out around the table. Samuel has been a plane enthusiast for years, so the answer was not exactly a surprise.
His family’s military ties run deep. His dad, Jeremy Lindquester, is retired Air Force, and Samuel’s grandfather fought in Vietnam. His mom, Bethany Lindquester, shared how proud she was to see him take this step.
Samuel was joined by his wife, Novileh Cummings. The two were married Nov. 14 after first meeting at Wylie in debate class. As Novileh put it, the transition will be hard while Samuel is away at training, “but I’m proud of him, so it’s worth it.”
Samuel, who has been at Wylie since sixth grade, named Mr. Dowell and Mr. and Mrs. Weatherman as some of his favorite teachers.
Dominik Cintron, who is joining the Coast Guard, said he was drawn to the branch because of the opportunities it offers and because he grew up around Coast Guard life. His father, Irving Cintron, is retired Coast Guard.
(Dominik Cintron with Father, Irving Cintron (Retired, Coast Guard)
Dominik starts boot camp Sept. 1. He said he is excited, nervous and ready for the challenge ahead. During his year and a half at Wylie, he said the CTE broadcasting program helped grow his interest in communications and sports broadcasting, something he hopes to pursue in the future.
His father said he is proud to see Dominik choose his own path.
“He’s following my footsteps,” Irving said, “but he’s creating his own steps.”
Dominik also gave a shoutout to Mrs. Hicks as one of his favorite teachers.
Jennifer Matthews, who is joining the Air Force, has been at Wylie since eighth grade. She said her decision was shaped by the opportunities military service can provide for her future. Her favorite Wylie memories are tied to band, where she found a place to belong and grow.
(Jennifer Matthews, Middle)
Her dad, Curtis Matthews, retired Air Force, said he is incredibly proud of her willingness to serve.
The evening also included several Wylie representatives and supporters, including Superintendent Joey Light, School Board Member Cameron Wiley, retired Air Force, Wylie High School Assistant Principal Gabriela Bundy, retired Air Force, and College and Career Counselor Anna Mitchell, retired Air Force.
A special thank you goes to Darci Hodges, Dyess Air Force Base School Liaison Officer, for organizing the event and helping make the evening meaningful for students and families.
Military Signing Day was more than a ceremony. It was a room full of futures beginning, families holding back tears, and students stepping toward a calling that asks for courage, discipline and heart.
And for Wylie ISD, it was one more reminder that Bulldogs leave our halls ready to serve, lead and make a difference.
It’s great to be a Wylie Bulldog!
(L-R Samuel Cummings, Mrs. Mitchell, Novileh Cummings)
