Major Floren Herrera (middle) with four Filipino cadets studying at the West Point Academy | Photo by Boyet Loverita
(Editor’s Note: The Philippine Daily Mirror is impressed and inspired by the remarks of Philippine Army Major Floren Herrera during the West Point Society of New York Founders’ Day Dinner on March 28, 2025, held at the Union League Club in midtown Manhattan, New York. Major Herrera is the first Filipino and West Point Academy international graduate recipient of the prestigious 2024 Alexander R. Nininger Award for Valor in Arms. His speech is posted below with his permission.)
It is an honor to stand before you tonight, surrounded by generations of West Pointers and our esteemed guests, to celebrate the institution that has shaped most of us—our beloved West Point.
When Ms. Gilman shared the impressive roster of past speakers, I initially questioned my readiness to speak—not out of insecurity but out of deep respect for those who came before me.
Back in the Philippines, as Scout Rangers, we often volunteered for risky missions just to avoid anything outside our comfort zones, like singing karaoke without a hint of musical talent. However, no longer assigned to battlefield duties, I had no excuse to decline Ms. Gillman and Ms. Ganes-LaSalla’s generous invitation.
I come from a humble rural area in the northern Philippines. Yet tonight, I stand before an audience defined by exceptional achievements.
The Alexander Nininger Award brought me to address the cadets at the United States Military Academy—a recognition for valor on the battlefield that is deeply tied to a lifelong commitment to making a sustainable difference.
Even after such recognition, I felt humbled by the honor of speaking before you—those who have long exemplified excellence, character, and sustainable change.
Reflecting further, I recall a powerful truth:
I am a West Point graduate, and that alone carries meaning. West Point empowers young individuals—even from remote Philippine villages—to embody its values and represent them with honor. This shared identity, sustained by alumni networks and a legacy of service, gives me the honor—and the responsibility—of speaking before you tonight.
Tonight is more than just a gathering—it is a report.
A report to those who walked this path before us, who continue to inspire us with purpose, courage, and conviction, and those who gave their all for Duty, Honor, and Country.
“The Honor Code teaches us to actively uphold integrity, preserve trust, and achieve mission effectiveness. Our duty extends far beyond military service; it is a lifelong pursuit of excellence across all sectors—government, business, and communities.”
Many here tonight have led in war, shaped institutions, and upheld the Academy’s highest ideals, proving West Point’s mission is a lifelong commitment.
Now, it is our turn.
As one of the younger graduates, I assure you that the lessons you passed down are alive in us. The values instilled at West Point guide our generation as we live by them, lead through them, and pass them forward.
Among the values passed down to us, one has guided me more than most—the principle of leading from the front.
I first experienced this lesson amidst combat chaos—in Marawi and the jungles of Sulu, Basilan, and Lanao del Sur. Leadership meant standing shoulder-to-shoulder with my troops, walking point, taking risks, and bearing their burdens.
Such leadership builds trust and respect and inspires battlefield courage.
But leadership extends beyond battlefields.
When combat ended, leadership was equally tested in quieter places—offices, decisions, and systems. Here, leadership demands moral courage against mediocrity, complacency, and corruption. Authority may have limits, but West Point taught us our values do not.
The Honor Code teaches us to actively uphold integrity, preserve trust, and achieve mission effectiveness. Our duty extends far beyond military service; it is a lifelong pursuit of excellence across all sectors—government, business, and communities.
Tonight, many of you embody these values, demonstrating their relevance in any leadership role.
For that, we thank you—and we follow your example.
Twelve years after graduating from West Point, I humbly report that I have given my best wherever I’ve been—especially on the battlefield.
Today, I strive to serve with the same dedication in quieter arenas, driven by an unwavering desire to make a difference.
Making a sustainable difference is not about moments of glory—it’s about enduring impact, often unseen but deeply felt. Only time will reveal how long I will continue wearing my Scout Ranger and Philippine Army uniform. But when the day comes to hang it up, I hope to look back, knowing I gave my best and served with honor.
When that moment comes, I pray the fire to serve grows stronger. Whenever life takes me, I continue giving my best to the people, communities, and country I love.
I may never stand on the pedestals many of you have reached, and I deeply admire the achievements that brought you there. But I’ve learned that success isn’t measured by rank or title.
I measure it by the difference I make. And that is the standard I will continue to live by.
Tonight, I report to you: the mission continues—a lifetime pursuit of service excellence, all to make a sustainable difference.
Let us continue to lead from the front, inspiring and uplifting the next generation of graduates.
Let us continue to make a sustainable difference.
Thank you. Go Army!
