Story by: C/CPL Adriel Lenteja
Photos by: C/SGT Sofia Del Rosario
The Stallion Battalion Participates in The Veterans Day Ceremony
On November 11, 2023, Veterans Day, the Tinian Stallion Battalion started by marching together as a unit to honor the veterans who have served this country. Along with the US and CNMI colors, Cadets marched with the U.S. Armed Forces service flags and 8 U.S. State flags.
Following the unit march, the posting of colors was commanded by C/CSM Kelvin Shrestha. Our national anthems were sung by our very own C/LTC Edward Tirona, C/MAJ Jaedon Lenteja, and C/2LT Annabel Kiyoshi. The event emcee was our Cadet Battalion S-3, Cadet/Major Ysabella Palacios. The opening remarks reminded us how important Veterans Day is to everyone in the community.
Mr. Don Farrel, an author of many CNMI History books, showed his appreciation by dedicating a part of his speech to the Tinian JROTC Stallion Battalion. He expressed his gratitude stating how JROTC was there to help clean up and prepare for Veterans Day.
The dedication of the Stallion Battalion doesn’t stop there. On October 26, 2023, Tinian JROTC demonstrated their commitment by undertaking cemetery maintenance in honor of All Souls and All Saints Day. Together, they tackled a cleanup effort by cleaning each gravestone and collecting various trash. This trash included broken flower pots, shattered candles, etc.
Besides collecting trash, they also trimmed the grass surrounding the graves ensuring that it was properly cleaned. Every Cadet from each of their blocks participated in maintaining its designated section, dedicating their time from morning until afternoon.
C/MAJ Ysabella Palacios reflects on the importance of participating in JROTC-related events by stating, “My time as a JROTC Cadet and an active participant in events specifically like this [Veterans Day], I have come to the realization that our presence is extremely important. Events like these will always be a success if we [as a community] continue to honor and show our respect.”
C/SGT Dylan Subia also mentioned, “This occasion allows us to show our appreciation and gratitude for the services and sacrifices of the military veterans.”
“The event was really well organized and I feel that the Tinian leadership, Mayor Of Tinian Office and Staff, and the THS Stallion Battalion did a great job of ensuring that it was a success. I would definitely participate in this event again,” says C/CPL Stephanie Diaz
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to those who have made immense sacrifices for our nation. We extend our deepest thanks to all the dedicated veterans who have served, as well as those who continue to bravely serve their country. The JROTC program is proud and eager to continue participating in events that honor our veterans, recognizing the significance of such occasions. Additionally, we are committed to instilling in our Cadets the importance of honoring and respecting those who have selflessly dedicated themselves to the service of our great nation.
