The Michigan City High School (MCHS) Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (MCJROTC) conducted an Awards Ceremony on May 18th at the high school. Cadets were recognized for their various achievements from competing on the Drill, Rifle, and Cyber Patriot teams to participation in community service projects and patriotic ceremonies, along with scholastic accomplishments and extracurricular involvement.
“This was the largest turn-out we have had in the six years we have been doing this ceremony,” said Senior Marine Instructor Major Tom McGrath. “I am very impressed with interest our parents have in the accomplishments of our cadets.”
Master Sergeant Jeff Benak complemented all who were involved in making the evening a memorable one for the cadets. “From our Booster Club to our parents to community members who came to present the awards, everyone came together to make this a first-class event.” Among the local Presenters were the Michiana Marines Chapter of the Marine Corps League, American Legion Post 37, and VFW Post 2536.
The following cadets earned individual awards:
-Cadet Staff Sergeant Ashley Baker received the Marine Corps League medal as the most improved member of the Drill Team.
-Cadet Gunnery Sergeant Alysa Willis received the American Legion Scholastic Excellence medal for high grade point average (GPA), drill team dedication, and leadership in the band.
-Cadet Gunnery Sergeant Damon Adams received the American Legion Military Excellence medal for leadership on the Drill Team and in athletics.
-Cadet Gunnery Sergeant Arturo Moreno received the Sons of the American Revolution medal for versatility on the drill team and over-all dedication to the program.
-Cadet Gunnery Sergeant McKayla Joseph received the Daughters of the American Revolution medal for commanding the unarmed exhibition platoon on the Drill Team and her high GPA.
-Cadet Gunnery Sergeant Michael Livengood received the Military Officers Association of America medal for being the most improved drill commander.
-Cadet Staff Sergeant James Steinhagen received the Veterans of Foreign Wars medal for superior leadership by example.
-Cadet Staff Sergeant Alison Meeks received the Women Marines Association for outstanding public affairs work.
-Cadet 2nd Lieutenant Pauline Lutton received the National Sojourners medal for superior performance by a drill commander and high GPA.
-Cadet Gunnery Sergeant Ana Nowatzke received the Scottish Rite medal for superior work in community service and public affairs.
-Cadet 2nd Lieutenant Jacob Williams received the Reserve Officers Association Award for over-all dedication to the Drill team and community service.
The cadets have no time to rest on their laurels. They have the following upcoming events:
May 21st Flag emplacement on veterans graves at Greenwood Cemetery May 21st Color Guard for Armed Forces Day ceremony at the LaPorte American Legion May 24th Honor Guard for veteran motorcycle groups send-off for Memorial Day in DC May 28th VFW Poppy Sale May 30th Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony June 3 Michigan City Main Street Association First Friday celebration June 3-4 Grand Prix at Stone Lake June 5 MCHS Graduation June 6-11 Leadership Camp, Delafield, Wisconsin
Cadets will be busy throughout the summer. They will support numerous community events like the LaPorte 4th of July parade, the national drum and bugle corps competition at Ames Field and the Michigan City Area Schools Back-to- School rally in August.