Writer: C/1LT, PAO Angelin Reyes
Photographer: C/1LT, PAO Angelin Reyes
The Overhills High School JROTC remembered 11 September 2001 with their annual ceremony. The official ceremony was planned and orchestrated by Special Projects Officer, Cadet major Cheyenne Cannon. Cadet Cannon also served as the Mistress of Ceremony.
This year marks 23 years since the horrific events that forever changed our great nation. The ceremony began with a wreath laying, and disquisitions from the Overhills Cadet Battalion Commander along with several members of the Cadet Staff. The national Anthem was led by the Overhills High School band, and the school chorus team. Freshman Nevelon Green performed ‘imagine’ by John Lennon. the band is directored by Mr. Brayden Coats. The ceremony concluded with the playing of taps by Band Drum Major, Cadet Master Sergeant Jeremiah Sizemore.
“This was a great opportunity for our school to come together to commemorate those souls that perished that day at the hands of terrorism targeted at our nation” says the battalion Executive Officer, Cadet Major Lila Black. “There are significant dates that our nation will remember such as 7 December 1941 and 11 September 2001 for generations to come.”
“This ceremony truly brings credit to our JROTC Corps of Cadets as we honor America’s greatest heroes. As the future generation of this nation, we go forward and carry the torch, understanding that we are as the mantle of leadership that makes this nation great” says Cadet First lieutenant Angelin Reyes and Cadet First Lieutenant Aniyah Kearney.
This ceremony affords the opportunity to not only learn history, of which forever changed our nation, it teaches the significance of honor and respect and holds true to our JROTC Cadet creed. “I am the future of the United States of America.” says Overhills High School Cadet Battalion Commander, Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Austin Harlow.
In attendance for this year’s ceremony was Mr. Jeffery Booker, Overhills High School Principal, Community First Responders, school staff, and guests from the local community.
The Overhills JROTC program is led by Major (R) Lex McClain, Command Sergeant Major (R) Cedric Thomas and First Sergeant (R) Jeffery Campbell.