Writer – Jimmy E. Hall
Photographer – COL Jimmy E. Hall, Coordinator, JROTC and Military Programs/Director Army Instructions (DAI)
On April 17, 2025, Cadet Elina Rivera-Pena, a junior at Western High School, made history in Florida as she enlisted in the Florida Army National Guard as an 11B, Infantryman. This significant achievement marks her as a trailblazer within the state’s military community. Cadet Rivera-Pena is set to ship out to Basic Combat Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, on May 27, 2025, where she will begin the first phase of her Split Option Training.
Next school year, Cadet Rivera-Pena will serve on the Wildcat Battalion Staff or as the Operations and Training Staff Sergeant Major. Following her graduation in June 2026, she will complete her Advanced Initial Training (AIT) for 11B, Infantryman. Upon her return, she plans to attend the Broward Fire Academy to become a Firefighter/EMT. Her Senior Army Instructor, Lieutenant Colonel Wendell Johnson stated that “Cadet Elina Rivera is my best Company Executive Officer! Her physical strength, competitive nature, and mental toughest helped will the smallest company in the battalion to earning the 2025 WHS Wildcat Games Championship! One of my toughest leaders on both our Raider Team and Drill Teams, she easily ranks as one of the strongest young leaders I have observed in my more than 39 years of Army and JROTC service.”
She reflects the values of leadership and service that are fostered through the JROTC program. Cadet Rivera-Pena’s journey embodies the drive and determination promoted through JROTC and sets a powerful example for her peers and community.