COLUMBUS, Ga. – Laura M. Darby has been commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army after successfully completing the Army ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) program and graduating with a bachelor's degree from Columbus State University, Ga.

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 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 them 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.

The new lieutenant will serve in the Army Medical Service Corps.

Darby is the daughter of Dan and Tracey Newell of Hidden Valley Lake. She is a 2004 graduate of Middletown High School.

Her husband, Garrett, is the son of William and Michele Tarry of Lower Lake.

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