Scott’s Branch High School Army JROTC Awards Ceremony

Thursday, 28 April 1800

Presenter: Capt. Keith Rodwell

The Army JROTC unit at Scott’s Branch High in Summerton is made up of about 40 cadets.  That may not seem like much but it is approximately 20% of the school’s student body.

The cadets, lead by Cadet Regina Milton, organized and ran the entire awards ceremony.  As only the second time that the school had an awards ceremony it was extremely well done – Major Ford, Sr. Instructor would occasionally give cues from off-stage when necessary and Sergeant First Class Rattley assisted with the presentations.

At exactly 1800 Cadet Milton welcomed the family and guests and asked them to rise for the posting of the colors and the National Anthem.  Marching crisply forward, the four members of the color guard were precise in their execution…very impressive.  A wonderful rendition of the National Anthem was sung by Cadet A. Jackson and was followed by the Eagle Battalion reciting the Cadet Creed.

Cadet Deondre Seaberry welcomed the audience and introduced the guest of honor and the three presenters: Marine Corps League, Scottish Rites and MOAA.  This was followed by a short “A Year in Review” video that had been made by the cadets.  It was warming to see their spirit and teamwork.

The awards presentation portion was reasonably paced and fairly short.  I had the privilege to present our two awards to two fine cadets who are wonderful examples of the future leaders of our nation.  Cadet Regina Milton received the Outstanding Cadet Award, a certificate and $50 check.  She is headed to nursing school after graduation.  Cadet Mercedes Oliver was very pleased to be awarded the MOAA Medal and Certificate.  According to SFC Rattle she is a hard worker who much deserved to be recognized.

Dr. Gwendolyn Harris, principal, gave the closing remarks and is very obviously a supporter of the JROTC aims and pleased with their many accomplishments with the cadets.

The ceremony was over at 1845 – That’s what I call short and sweet!