RVC resident addresses regiment at Kings Point

Rockville Centre resident John D. Cameron, Jr., P.E., managing partner of Cameron Engineering & Associates, LLP, was the featured speaker at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point on Sept. 15, addressing the regimental body of midshipmen.

Cameron, a 1971 graduate of the Academy, lectured on the themes of ethics and leadership as part of the J. Smith Lanier Distinguished Speaker Series. As part of his address, Cameron — as an alumnus of the Academy — used the opportunity to challenge the midshipmen to make a positive difference in the world.

“While I was deeply honored to be afforded this distinct opportunity, I was also extremely humbled by not only the enthusiastic reception I received upon being introduced and the absolute respectful silence for the duration of my 22-minute presentation, but also the resounding and sustained ovation I received at the conclusion of my remarks,” Cameron said. “Apparently, it was like one of their own coming back to reassure them that all they are going through in the rigors of a Kings Point experience was all worthwhile. I told them that I would not have accomplished what I have in my career if not for Kings Point.”

Following his address, Cameron was presented with the Light of Leadership Award by the Regimental Commander, MIDN. Capt. Nicholas Harvey. The award is presented for “contributions to our Nation in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Merchant Marine Academy.” Cameron was also presented with the prestigious Academy Honor Coin, designed by Aaron N. Seesan, KP ’03, while he was a midshipman at the Academy. Lt. Seesan was mortally wounded in combat in 2005 near Mosul, Iraq. With third degree burns on 80 percent of his body, Seesan ordered medics to treat other wounded soldiers before him.

Cameron said that his speaking experience at the Academy “was absolutely one of the most powerful and memorable events of my career, one which I will always treasure as a lifetime highlight.”