Writer: CW5(R) Thomas Nathan Trujillo
Photographer: Mr. Eloy Lopez
On Saturday, September 21, 2024, the Valley High School (VHS) Army JROTC Program hosted the 31st Annual Early Bird JROTC Competition in Albuquerque, NM. The Early Bird competition was a project-based learning event and a culmination of learned skills. The VHS Army JROTC Cadets planned, coordinated, and set up this event. We had over 500 cadets from across Albuquerque and central and northern New Mexico participate in this competition. The cadets competed in Military Drill, Color Guard, Physical Fitness, Marksmanship and negotiated our new Confidence Course. 61 trophies and 46 medals were awarded to the top performers. The Early Bird Competition fostered Esprit de Corps between JROTC programs, developed teamwork and continued to motivate our Cadets to be better and more productive citizens while having fun!