Tom Hanlon, second from left, and Micaela Salazar, third from right, await their commissioning Thursday as U.S. Air Force second lieutenants at Keller Hall in Albuquerque. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Bret Painter, right, beloved former military science instructor at Los Alamos High School, traveled to Albuquerque to give the first salute to 2nd Lt. Tom Hanlon who was commissioned Thursday at Keller Hall. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

Newly-commissioned 2nd Lt. Tom Hanlon chats with Fr. John Carney, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, left, and Fr. Glenn Jones, former U.S. Marine Corp Captain. Fr. Carney administered the oath of office to Hanlon. Both priests are former pastors at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Los Alamos. Fr. Carney has retired and Fr. Jones now is the Vicar General for the Diocese of Santa Fe. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com

U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Tom Hanlon celebrates with his brother, Ben, and parents Jim and Paula Hanlon at a reception in his honor Thursday. Hanlon presented with the Distinguished Graduate Award. He also received his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. Photo by Maire O’Neill/losalamosreporter.com