Faculty Spotlight - CW3 Pete Ray

Department of Military History

Article published on: December 1, 2024, in Volume II, Issue 4 Edition.

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A military officer dressed in a formal uniform adorned with multiple ribbons, medals, and insignia. The background features a yellow and black emblem with crossed cannons and a star.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CW3) Peter C. Ray is a remarkable member of the faculty of the Warrant Officer Career College (WOCC). His commitment to service and leadership is evident in various capacities throughout the WOCC and the community. Pete is an instructor in the Department of Military History. He also served as a Training, Advising, and Counseling (TAC) Officer with the 1st Warrant Officer Company. He serves beyond his instructional duties by serving as a mentor to hundreds of Warrant Officer Candidates that pass through the hall of the WOCC. His expertise in military history and passion for teaching helped him lead the project of designing the Warrant Officer Museum at the historic J.D. Holman House in Ozark, Alabama. With contributions from the Warrant Officer Historical Foundation, Pete has dedicated countless hours to gather and categorize artifacts, effectively narrating the history of the Army Warrant Officer from its inception in 1918 to the present day. Pete continues to collaborate with the Warrant Officer Historical Foundation to ensure the accurate and respectful presentation of the Warrant Officer’s lineage and history, effectively giving students an opportunity to witness history.

CW3 Ray is actively involved in various organizations within the Wiregrass region, including the Enterprise Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the United States Army Warrant Officer Association. Pete has volunteered over five hundred hours and helped to raise more than $8,000 for the CW5 John Robinson Scholarship Program, benefiting five local high schools. His community involvement extends to environmental efforts, such as participating in the Adopt a Highway program.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Peter C. Ray exemplifies selfless service and dedication to his community. His contributions not only enhance the educational experience of his students but also foster a powerful sense of community through various initiatives. As such, the U.S. Warrant Officer Association recognized CW3 Pete Ray as the 2024 CW4 Albert M. Holcombe Warrant Officer of the Year.