Authored by: Cdt/CPL Abecca Ackles
Photos by: MAJ (Ret) Madonna L. Roberts
As the cadets of the JROTC unit filed into the room, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Excitement rippled through the air as they took their places, was wearing their uniform proudly. Amidst the chatter and laughter, there was a sense of solemnity, a recognition of the significance of the event they were about to partake in.
The grog bowl ceremony stood as a symbol of transition, camaraderie, and dedication to Our battalion. It has been a time-honored ritual, steeped in history and meaning, where our cadets came together to strengthen bonds and forge lifelong relationships.
As the ceremony commenced, the cadets listened attentively to the words spoken by their leaders, reflecting on the values of honor, duty, and loyalty. With each passing moment, the anticipation grew, building to the ceremony’s climax: the mixing of the grog.
And as they raised their glasses in a toast to their unit and each other, the cadets knew that they were not just part of a program, but part of a legacy – one that would endure long after they had left these halls, The dining in also included reading of the history of dining ins, the “Missing Man” table, and skits by each class period.
