Lawrence County High School – Cougar Cadets enlist with the U.S. Army Mississippi National Guard

by

Writer & Photographer – SFC (R) Arturo De La Garza

The Lawrence County (Monticello, MS) High School JROTC “Cougar” Battalion made significant history in having five JROTC cadets enlist in the US Army Mississippi National Guard, with Brigade Commander Colonel Christopher W. Cooksey, Commander of the 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team Dixie Thunder, presiding over the Oath of Enlistment to these outstanding cadets:

  • Gordon D. Burkhart
  • Cyniah L. Payton
  • Jordan F. Perkins
  • Kolbi I. Dillon
  • Christopher C. Turner

This achievement results from the collective effort of the Lawrence County community, School staff, SSG Mathew Morgan, Recruiter of the U.S. Army Mississippi National Guard, and the parents of these cadets, who have always supported the JROTC program. The Battalion is overseen by Senior Army Instructor Colonel (R) Craig Weaver and Army Instructor SFC (R) Arturo De La Garza.