Ashleigh E. Siekosi has been commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army after successfully completing the Army ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) program and graduating with a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Ind.

The new officer will be branched to a specific corps in the Army to serve on active duty or in the National Guard or Reserve. The lieutenant will attend an officer basic course relating to his or her particular military occupational specialty/job. Afterward, the officer will complete advanced training by attending basic officer leadership courses for career progression purposes.

The ROTC curriculum prepares students with the tools, training and experiences to help cadets succeed as effective leaders in any competitive environment. Army officers serve as leaders, counselors, strategists and motivators, who lead other soldiers in all situations occurring in ever-changing environments. As trained problem-solvers, key influencers and planners, they are driven to achieve success with their team on every mission.

She is the daughter of Kris and Robert Sieko of St. Joseph, Mich., and granddaughter of Bonnie and Ray Effing of Batesville, Ind.

Air Force Airman Jacob W. Bennett graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.
Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Bennett is the son of Randall Bennett of Aurora.

He is a 2010 graduate of South Dearborn High School, Aurora.