Students from the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School don the Green Beret for the first time during the graduation ceremony. (U.S. Army photo by K. Kassens)

SFQC Graduation
Class 340
August 28, 2025

By Debra Holm

Congratulations to the 168 SFQC graduates of Class 340, who donned their new Green Berets for the first time on August 28 during the graduation ceremony and Regimental First Formation held at the Crown Coliseum in Fayetteville, NC.

CSM Matthew O. Williams, Medal of Honor recipient and previous command sergeant major for 4th Battalion, was the ceremony’s keynote speaker. He emphasized that earning the Green Beret is an honor and responsibility rooted in sacrifice and professionalism, preparing graduates to face evolving challenges with the support of their families and to wear it with humility and pride.

Command Sgt. Major Matthew O. Williams, Medal of Honor recipient, U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School, presents a green beret to a student during the graduation ceremony and Regimental First Formation. (U.S. Army photo by K. Kassens)

In the days prior to the ceremony, the graduates were invited to attend the SFQC Graduation BBQ, jointly sponsored by SFA Chapters 78 and 1-18, on Chapter 1-18’s teahouse/compound in Fayetteville, North Carolina. At the event, Chapter 78 member John Stryker Meyer welcomed 11 graduates as new life members of our chapter. DOL!

Chapter 78 member John Stryker Meyer welcomed 11 graduates as new SFA Life Members of our chapter.

SFA Chapter 1-18 President Jeff Rinaldi speaking at the Q-Course pre-graduation BBQ held at the Chapter 1-18 teamhouse/compound. (Photo courtesy Jeff Rinaldi)

Left to right, SFA President Chris Wilkerson, Chapter 1-18 member Eli Olivas, and Chapter 78 member John Stryker Meyer. (Photo courtesy Jeff Rinaldi)

Soon-to-be graduates at the pre-graduation BBQ. (Photo courtesy Jeff Rinaldi)

About the Author:

Debra Holm has served as the art director/graphic designer of Chapter 78’s Sentinel since February 2012, and is also Chapter 78’s webmaster and social media manager.