Sailors from Information Warfare Training Command (IWTC) Monterey became the Navy's newest cryptologic technicians (interpretive) (CTI) during a graduation ceremony at the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC), March 30.

The graduating Sailors included students from the Arabic (Levantine), Chinese (Mandarin), Persian (Farsi) and Modern Standard Arabic courses. As Navy linguists, the graduates will go on to fulfill roles in the processing of foreign language information in support of national, strategic and tactical missions both at sea and ashore.

"This is just one stop in your journey as a language professional," said Air Force Col. Keith Logeman, DLIFLC assistant commandant and guest speaker for the graduation. "You will have an impact on all levels of the mission from the foxhole to the White House, and that is a pretty incredible thing to consider."

With language courses ranging from 36 to 64 weeks in length, DLIFLC serves as the CTI rating "A" school and is one of the Navy's longest. It is also considered by many to be one of the most difficult schools.

"This is a stressful environment, but it has to be that way in order for us to train top-notch language professionals for the Department of Defense," said Logeman. "I am truly proud of all our graduates. I am inspired by you."

Seaman Sarah Michalke, a graduate with orders to a Navy information operations command, echoed Logeman's remarks.

"Going through this school is one of the most challenging things I've done, and it feels amazing to make it through," said Michalke. "I met a lot of great people here, and I'm honored to be a part of this unique community. I'm looking forward to putting all the skills I learned to use at my next command."

IWTC Monterey, as part of the Center for Information Warfare Training, provides a continuum of foreign language training to Navy personnel, which prepares them to conduct information warfare across the full spectrum of military operations.

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