March's Cadet of the Month
monthly Cougar Care Café event. He is actively involved in the Model Airplane Club. What Cadet Thiede enjoys most about the program is the people. He enjoys hanging out with all his fellow cadets at the numerous events held within AFJROTC. Thiede is actively involved in his community, having completed over 13 community service events. Cadet Thiede enjoys his Math class and hopes to go to college and train to be an accountant.
Thiede was awarded the Cadet of the Month because of his continued responsibility and commitment in every duty he is given.
Thiede was awarded the Cadet of the Month because of his continued responsibility and commitment in every duty he is given.
8th Grade Orientation
The 8th-grade orientation was an event hosted for the rising 9th graders so that they can learn about all the various organizations and clubs offered at the high school. AFJROTC attended this event to recruit cadets for next year’s school year. We explained what AFJROTC was, the benefits, and what we do outside of school. Cadet Litwalk stated, “The event went great, it was nice to see and meet all the future students that could potentially be cadets next year”. Thank you to all who helped show future students the many benefits included within our AFJROTC Program.
Prom Fashion Show
Garden City Highschool Seniors proudly walked down the catwalk as they showed off their marvelous dresses. Garden City held a Prom Fashion Show, and AFJROTC was faithfully there once again, to help usher and open doors. “It was nice to see all the families and friends that came to support the high school seniors,” commented Cadet Heffner after the event. Thank you to all the cadets who helped usher and all the participants for the wonderful Prom dress fashion show!
Blanket Making Party
Purple Blanket Roll-up
KHAS Movie Night
The Kitty Hawk Air Society has put on another exciting and successful event! This month’s event was a corps-wide movie night in the AFJROTC room. Cadets sipped on hot chocolate and ate popcorn as they watched Disney’s Big Hero 6. “I really enjoyed hanging out with fellow cadets and watching the movie, I haven’t seen it in years!” remarked Cadet Baker. Thank you to the KHAS cadets for organizing and leading this event!
Forward MARCH! - Drill Advertisement
You may have heard about our Unit’s Drill Team, perhaps you considered joining. Maybe you had ignored it because you thought it might be a misuse of time. Well, you might want to consider the benefits that OUTWEIGH any negatives. Drill is marching, an old tradition used for centuries by some of the most remarkable, and powerful countries to advance and prepare troops for battle. Today, drill is practiced to instill discipline, and attention to detail. Drill prepares cadets to lead not only during drill, but in life.
You can likewise earn some bling, meaning you earn and proudly wear an aiguillette on your shoulder, as well as ribbons on your uniform. When you have that bling on your uniform plus you bring home a drill award or medal, it instills a sense of pride and certainly makes you look impressive, not only to your mom or dad but to your instructors, classmates, and friends. Drill is not just a great chance to advance yourself but to encounter supportive friends that can encourage and help you throughout high school.
Our Drill Team competes in several drill competitions throughout the school year. The drill meets usually consist of events, such as unarmed/armed exhibitions, Varsity/JV Color Guard and unarmed knockouts. The Drill Team has brought back many significant awards and trophies from numerous competitions.
All we ask of you is to try it. No matter what, try it. You may realize it isn’t for you or, you may love it, and you would never have known if you hadn’t bothered to try at all. The Drill Team offers a new challenge that can not only change your perspective of the military but can spark a mature sense of pride and self-confidence.
You can likewise earn some bling, meaning you earn and proudly wear an aiguillette on your shoulder, as well as ribbons on your uniform. When you have that bling on your uniform plus you bring home a drill award or medal, it instills a sense of pride and certainly makes you look impressive, not only to your mom or dad but to your instructors, classmates, and friends. Drill is not just a great chance to advance yourself but to encounter supportive friends that can encourage and help you throughout high school.
Our Drill Team competes in several drill competitions throughout the school year. The drill meets usually consist of events, such as unarmed/armed exhibitions, Varsity/JV Color Guard and unarmed knockouts. The Drill Team has brought back many significant awards and trophies from numerous competitions.
All we ask of you is to try it. No matter what, try it. You may realize it isn’t for you or, you may love it, and you would never have known if you hadn’t bothered to try at all. The Drill Team offers a new challenge that can not only change your perspective of the military but can spark a mature sense of pride and self-confidence.
Coming Home Raffle
|
After a spirit filled week from our local Garden City High School, the long awaited Coming Home Basketball game was upon us. February 7th 2020 Garden City’s Boys Basketball Team faced off against Crestwood’s Boys team. AFJROTC took this opportunity to hold a 50/50 Raffle during both the JV and Varsity games. The Cougars put up a fight, but unfortunately lost the varsity game. Yet the winner of the 50/50 raffle sure did win! About $135 was
|
raised for the JROTC program. The proceeds are going towards buying each military service hat for our annual Military Ball. Cadet Cramer shared, “I wish I could take home some of that money!” Thank you to all the cadets who participated and to those who made our raffle such a success.
Military Ball
|
January 31, 2020, was an exciting night for all cadets as they arrived at the Burton Manor Banquet Hall for the yearly Military Ball! Following the National Anthem sung by Cadet Stewart and a prayer led by Cadet Carter Dougherty, a memorial of the POW/MIA table and an Old Glory was performed. As Cadet Robinson began the powerful script of Old Glory, Cadets Wood, Cornelius, Sabbagh, and Dunn marched to the center of the room, carrying a large American flag. They
|
had opened, presented and finally folded our flag. Soon after, the cadets entered again but instead surrounded the POW/MIA Table arranged for everyone to see. Cadet Robinson explained the meaning of the displayed symbols as the cadets performed their routine. Cadet Lewis played Taps on his trumpet, a tune played in memory of the fallen soldiers. “I was getting chills just listening to the words spoken during the Old Glory and POW/MIA ceremonies!” exclaimed Cadet Papazian during dinner.
After the ceremonies came the comical tradition of the Grog, a mixture of random snacks and drinks- such as Gatorade, Gram Crackers and Cranberry Juice. Several cadets had either swigged the grog or danced to songs like YMCA or All About That Bass! Following dinner, it was time to announce the King and Queen of the 2020 Military Ball: the court consisted of cadets Schwarze, Cornelius, Heffner, Buja, Carter Dougherty and Olechowski. After a short drum roll, Cadet Carter Dougherty and Cadet Schwarze were named King and Queen. Cadets and guests soon hit the dance floor with line dances like The Cotton Eyed Joe, Cupid Shuffle, and even The Wobble. Cadets and guests had an amazing time dancing, laughing and dining the night away!
We thank everyone involved in the planning of the event and the cadets who participated in the Color Guard, Old Glory and POW/MIA ceremonies!
After the ceremonies came the comical tradition of the Grog, a mixture of random snacks and drinks- such as Gatorade, Gram Crackers and Cranberry Juice. Several cadets had either swigged the grog or danced to songs like YMCA or All About That Bass! Following dinner, it was time to announce the King and Queen of the 2020 Military Ball: the court consisted of cadets Schwarze, Cornelius, Heffner, Buja, Carter Dougherty and Olechowski. After a short drum roll, Cadet Carter Dougherty and Cadet Schwarze were named King and Queen. Cadets and guests soon hit the dance floor with line dances like The Cotton Eyed Joe, Cupid Shuffle, and even The Wobble. Cadets and guests had an amazing time dancing, laughing and dining the night away!
We thank everyone involved in the planning of the event and the cadets who participated in the Color Guard, Old Glory and POW/MIA ceremonies!
Howell Drill Meet
Our drill team started the February off right, competing in Howell High school’s 4th annual drill meet. The competition consisted of eight high school drill teams, three traveling from out of state. Cadet Wood placed 10th in the open-armed knockout. “It was exciting as ever, and the other teams were especially supportive of our small band of cadets,” exclaimed Cadet Chapman. One cadet from Howell High School’s drill team approached our team and exclaimed how proud she was of our team for participating even though we
|
|
were small in numbers and a young in experience. Springfield’s Emerald Guard exhibition team put on quite a performance during their armed exhibition routine. Overall, the drill team members had a grand time and they are all looking forward to the next drill meet!
Flight of the Semester
After a tight race for Flight of the Semester, Bravo Build the Wall secured the win with a total of 10.73 points! Delta Deadshots were on their tails with a 10.21 total and Charlie In the Trees with a collected total of 9.26. Alpha Accidents had a total of 9.46, and Echo Eclipse totaled 8.71.
The Bravo Flight was rewarded with Sarge’s Famous Pancakes after their first day of Finals. The Flight includes Cadets, Lewis (Flight Cmdr), Wood (Flight Sgt), Litwalk, Garrett, Costello, Hilton, Cramer, Vitrano, Contrastato, Butler, LeFaive, Huffman, Nixon, L. Campbell, Farner, S. Trezil, Daniels, Peetz and Doc 3. If you see any of the cadets, be sure to congratulate them for all their diligent work!
Unit Christmas Party
|
FUN FRENZY is a great way to describe this year’s Garden City AFJROTC unit’s Christmas party! Our unit’s Kitty Hawk Air Society ran the event and accomplished multiple party games to keep cadets engaged and excited, all while Christmas music was blasted through a speaker. Cadets drank hot chocolate and devoured the snacks set out on the food table, as many cadets decorated Christmas ornaments with markers and stickers. Along with an exciting ugly sweater contest, in
|
which the principal was the deciding vote, cadets were given the challenge to try to unwrap multiple layers of a wrapping papered prize with oven mitts! Cadet was given five seconds each as the prize traveled around the table and whoever unwrapped it fully was given the exciting prize. “The food was great and the ornament making was a really fun twist!” cadet C. Dougherty had said cheerfully! Thank you to all who came and had made the party a little bit brighter!
KHAS Senior Home Visit
On December 12, Kitty Hawk Air Society visited seniors citizens at the Garden City Towers. Kitty Hawk members brought cookies, games, and smiles for the seniors! Members, along with a few DECA members, played numerous board and card games with groups of seniors. “I wanted to make sure the seniors didn’t feel lonely this Christmas if their family can’t visit them. Playing board games with them was a small gesture, but probably a large expression to them!” Cadet C. Dougherty had stated after the event. Thank you to all who attended!
|
|
Baptist Church Christmas Party
|
Many AFJROTC cadets were enthusiastic to volunteer on December 7 at the Merriman Baptist Church’s Christmas party this year! The party was a charity for the disabled and special needs community around Garden City. Cadets assisted the party-goers out of their vehicles and guided them around the party, to dance, to see Santa and overall, make them feel welcomed and loved. Most of the party-goers had huge smiles after they were greeted by cadets, leaving smiles as they passed!
|
Cadet Cramer even broke out some moves on the dance floor as she danced with the excited party-goers! “This event was definitely a success! When they smiled or waved at me, it warmed my heart and I knew they felt the same way! ” exclaimed cadet Papazian.
Choir Concert Ushers
On December 11th, Garden City High School held it's choir concert. AFJROTC cadets were ready to show our support by ushering and welcoming guests by the doors. “The choir was outstanding!” exclaimed cadet Leleniewski. Thank you to the cadets for volunteering their time to help usher!
Hair/Bun Party
HAIR. BUN. GEL! The Hair/Bun party took place on December 3rd after school. Female cadets were able to work together to learn, share some tips and assist each other in creating a Military-Regulated Bun. The cadets used various types of hair products, including hair gel! Besides the occasional gun draw using spray bottles, cadets stayed on task and finished with great looking buns! Donuts were offered after the party, which the cadets really enjoyed. “Even though the overall turn-out wasn’t what I expected, I still had a lot of fun joking around with the other cadets as we fixed our hair. Lt. Colonel even joined us!” commented cadet Dougherty 3, who organized and ran the event.
Santa Land Parade
On the 30th of November, cadets from each flight of MI-861 came out to march in the annual Garden City Santaland parade. The AFJROTC unit was one of the first organizations to march, leading all different groups, such as the Hockey Club, the American Legion, and even the City Council of Garden City down the streets around City Hall! Cadets and Color Guard marched proudly and sounded off to multiple cadences. “Even though it was cold, there were plenty of
|
|
smiles! I was glad we got to represent our unit in the community!” said cadet Stewart. Let’s hope that the Santaland parade will continue to be a yearly tradition for all families and the AFJROTC unit for years to come!
Can Food Drive
From November 15th through to November 27th, our AFJROTC unit had held our annual canned food drive. We are excited and thankful to announce we have acquired a total of 277 cans! Both our fellow cadets within the corps and several Garden City teachers participated and donated any extra cans that they could afford! All the cans and non-perishable foods that we had collected were donated to the Cougar Care Cafe for their monthly food pantry opened to the community and those who are in need. We are extremely thankful and grateful for all your generous donations and to the cadets who have donated at least 5 cans, you have earned 50 points extra credit!
Selfridge Air National Gaurd Field Trip
|
From November 15th through to November 27th, our AFJROTC unit had held our annual canned food drive. We are excited and thankful to announce we have acquired a total of 277 cans! Both our fellow cadets within the corps and several Garden City teachers participated and donated any extra cans that they could afford! All the cans and non-perishable foods that we had collected were donated to the Cougar Care Cafe for their monthly food pantry opened to the community and those who are in need. We are extremely thankful and grateful for all your generous donations and to the cadets who have donated at least 5 cans, you have earned 50 points extra credit!
|
Play Ushers
|
On November 21-24, the GCHS theater program performed its version of “Puffs.” The play tells the story about three young wizards that attend a certain magic academy for seven eventful and comedic years. The AFJROTC unit ushered every show of this “Potter-like” comedy! "There were a lot of people that showed up to see the play," Cadet Papazian commented. Cadet Cornelius added "The show was really funny and the audience enjoyed it!" After she stayed via the complimentary tickets provided the cadets in appreciation of their service.
|
Guest Speaker
On November 21, 2019, Westland’s Army recruiter, Sgt Boesman, came to speak and hopefully get cadets thinking about joining the military. He told the cadets about his current job, his experience as an infantryman, why he joined the military. Sgt Boesman informed cadets of what a typical day in the army is like and the benefits of enlisting. He answered all the questions cadets asked, ranging from what his favorite MRE meal was, to how basic training might have changed him as a person. “It was cool, and since he was pretty laid back, I wasn’t intimidated to ask questions!” said Cadet Cramer. The recruiter certainly sparked thoughts about the military and possibly joining the service in many cadets!
Anchor Bay Drill meet
On November 16, 12 cadets went and participated in Anchor Bay’s 11th annual drill meet. This meet consisted of six different teams, three even came from out of state. Cadet Cornelius placed 4th in the first-year unarmed knockout. “It was a good learning experience and we're excited to use the knowledge and experience gained from Anchor Bay at other competitions,” says Cadet Tyson. Another Cadet said they liked watching the exhibition routines, an abstract drill routine with a visual and audible presentation. Overall, we enjoyed the event and look forward to the upcoming drill competitions!
|
|
Staff Bowling Trip
|
This school year, our wonderful cadets worked diligently and led us to success in our unit inspection earning the highest possible award of Distinguished Unit with Merit. To reward their hard work and dedication, we scheduled a staff bowling trip at Oak Lanes Bowling Alley. The highest score was a mighty 130 points scored by Cadet Costello! Good natured, friendly competitions started between cadets as well Colonel Gilmour and Sergeant Ragnone. Others gave lessons to help improve everyone's bowling techniques. Cadet Oski remarked, “Bowling was a good way for staff to bond together and celebrate after a successful unit assessment. It was fun to show off my skills and relax with friends.”
|
Veteran's Day Ceremony
This past Monday, MI-861 took part in the Veterans Day Ceremony held in O’Leary Auditorium at Garden City High School. Veterans past and present, were honored in the presenting of the flags of each branch and oral recognition. Mayor Walker called out each branch of the military and as he did so the veterans stood up with pride. For all they have done for this country, this event was suitable in recognizing and heroic actions of veterans present and absent. The Cadets who took part in Color Guard were well prepared and
|
|
honored to attend. Without a hitch and event ran smoothly and beautifully. Cadet Megan Schwarze stated that “The event went very smoothly, and I was glad to see our cadets take the time out of their day to honor our veterans”
Cougar Care Cafe
|
Cadets from MI-861 arrived at the Burger Transition Center to help those in need of food, clothing, and other necessities. As usual, the cadets were more than happy to help out around the school, and even got to enjoy some refreshments themselves!
|
Make-A-Senior-Smile
The first weekend of November 2019, cadets participating in Make a Senior Smile by picking up leaves for the seniors in the Garden City. As Cadet Shwarze said, “even though it was a cold morning we still warmed the seniors hearts.” We must have filled at least 50 bags of leaves! We also provided additional help to the Maplewood center by picking up leaves around the building. The leaders of the program talked about how great the cadets are for taking time out of our day to be there and help them. It was our joy to be involved in the event and help the elderly in our community.
|
|
Veteran's Day Concert CG
Selfridge Air National Gaurd Field Trip
|
On the 29th of October, AFJROTC went on a field trip to the Selfridge Air National Guard base located in Harrison Township, MI. During our visit, our cadets learned more about the Air National Guard’s fire safety equipment in aircraft crash situations, their security and wildlife protection, and their control tower and radar equipment! We got to witness the force exerted by the fire trucks, which use both water and foam to subdue fires, and we learned about all of the tools found on each of the trucks. Cadet Beauchamp even got to hold
|
them, while our guide informed us that the weight of those tools is one big reason why physical training is so important. As we moved to the security section, we also learned about their guns, tasers, sprays, and wildlife protection tactics. We were allowed to take pictures of guns like the M 249 SAW, and we heard stories of how tasers and sprays were incorporated into their training. Cadet Booth said that “It was amazing to see an Air Force Base, to hold amazing weaponry, and talk to those who are actually in the Air Force.” They also included wildlife protection when it comes to the aircraft landing and taking off, which had tactics such as clearing the area of certain habitats, encouraging animals to leave the area on their own accord or using catch and release methods. Our last area to visit included their control tower and radar, which was all about their communication with not only military aircraft, but commercial planes as well. They all had extremely important jobs, which required a lot of quick thinking. Cadet Beauchamp was happy to say that “It was a great learning experience for me, I got to know more about what the Selfridge Air National Guard base does for everyone!” All of us cadets who went on the field trip are extremely thankful to have gotten to know more about the Air National Guard and the people who were guiding us throughout the trip.
Halloween Party
|
At our annual Halloween party we had pizza, drinks, a costume contest, music, and candy. As cadet Plum said, “I had a blast because I won the costume contest and got a bucket of candy.” The principals also made an appearance and helped with the contest by helping pick who won. Everyone overall had a great time and there was lots of good feedback.
|
Selfridge Air National Gaurd Field Trip
|
On the 29th of October, AFJROTC went on a field trip to the Selfridge Air National Guard base located in Harrison Township, MI. During our visit, our cadets learned more about the Air National Guard’s fire safety equipment in aircraft crash situations, their security and wildlife protection, and their control tower and radar equipment! We got to witness the force exerted by the fire trucks, which use both water and foam to subdue fires, and we learned about all of the tools found on each of the trucks. Cadet Beauchamp even got to hold
|
them, while our guide informed us that the weight of those tools is one big reason why physical training is so important. As we moved to the security section, we also learned about their guns, tasers, sprays, and wildlife protection tactics. We were allowed to take pictures of guns like the M 249 SAW, and we heard stories of how tasers and sprays were incorporated into their training. Cadet Booth said that “It was amazing to see an Air Force Base, to hold amazing weaponry, and talk to those who are actually in the Air Force.” They also included wildlife protection when it comes to the aircraft landing and taking off, which had tactics such as clearing the area of certain habitats, encouraging animals to leave the area on their own accord or using catch and release methods. Our last area to visit included their control tower and radar, which was all about their communication with not only military aircraft, but commercial planes as well. They all had extremely important jobs, which required a lot of quick thinking. Cadet Beauchamp was happy to say that “It was a great learning experience for me, I got to know more about what the Selfridge Air National Guard base does for everyone!” All of us cadets who went on the field trip are extremely thankful to have gotten to know more about the Air National Guard and the people who were guiding us throughout the trip.
Autos for Autism
|
Hot rods, 1950’s Pontiacs, and even more amazing things can be found at Autos for Autism, a non-profit charity event. Workers/volunteers from Garden City High Schools AFJROTC class helped with this summer event and had their very own Color Guard to start the event by presenting the colors to the singing of the National Anthem. Anything from counting votes for a winning car, to selling food and drinks at the concession stands, each cadet did their part to help. “It was truly an amazing event, so many interesting cars to see and activities to do,” said Cadet Heffner. It was a major success for both the city and ourselves to see how much joy it brought to those who came. |
Hot rods, 1950’s Pontiacs, and even more amazing things can be found at Autos for Autism, a non-profit charity event. Workers/volunteers from Garden City High Schools AFJROTC class helped with this summer event and had their very own Color Guard to start the event by presenting the colors to the singing of the National Anthem. Anything from counting votes for a winning car, to selling food and drinks at the concession stands, each cadet did their part to help. “It was truly an amazing event, so many interesting cars to see and activities to do,” said Cadet Heffner. It was a major success for both the city and ourselves to see how much joy it brought to those who came.
Autos for Autism
|
Hot rods, 1950’s Pontiacs, and even more amazing things can be found at Autos for Autism, a non-profit charity event. Workers/volunteers from Garden City High Schools AFJROTC class helped with this summer event and had their very own Color Guard to start the event by presenting the colors to the singing of the National Anthem. Anything from counting votes for a winning car, to selling food and drinks at the concession stands, each cadet did their part to help. “It was truly an amazing event, so many interesting cars to see and activities to do,” said Cadet Heffner. It was a major success for both the city and ourselves to see how much joy it brought to those who came. |
Hot rods, 1950’s Pontiacs, and even more amazing things can be found at Autos for Autism, a non-profit charity event. Workers/volunteers from Garden City High Schools AFJROTC class helped with this summer event and had their very own Color Guard to start the event by presenting the colors to the singing of the National Anthem. Anything from counting votes for a winning car, to selling food and drinks at the concession stands, each cadet did their part to help. “It was truly an amazing event, so many interesting cars to see and activities to do,” said Cadet Heffner. It was a major success for both the city and ourselves to see how much joy it brought to those who came.
Autos for Autism
|
Hot rods, 1950’s Pontiacs, and even more amazing things can be found at Autos for Autism, a non-profit charity event. Workers/volunteers from Garden City High Schools AFJROTC class helped with this summer event and had their very own Color Guard to start the event by presenting the colors to the singing of the National Anthem. Anything from counting votes for a winning car, to selling food and drinks at the concession stands, each cadet did their part to help. “It was truly an amazing event, so many interesting cars to see and activities to do,” said Cadet Heffner. It was a major success for both the city and ourselves to see how much joy it brought to those who came. |
Hot rods, 1950’s Pontiacs, and even more amazing things can be found at Autos for Autism, a non-profit charity event. Workers/volunteers from Garden City High Schools AFJROTC class helped with this summer event and had their very own Color Guard to start the event by presenting the colors to the singing of the National Anthem. Anything from counting votes for a winning car, to selling food and drinks at the concession stands, each cadet did their part to help. “It was truly an amazing event, so many interesting cars to see and activities to do,” said Cadet Heffner. It was a major success for both the city and ourselves to see how much joy it brought to those who came.
Autos for Autism
|
Hot rods, 1950’s Pontiacs, and even more amazing things can be found at Autos for Autism, a non-profit charity event. Workers/volunteers from Garden City High Schools AFJROTC class helped with this summer event and had their very own Color Guard to start the event by presenting the colors to the singing of the National Anthem. Anything from counting votes for a winning car, to selling food and drinks at the concession stands, each cadet did their part to help. “It was truly an amazing event, so many interesting cars to see and activities to do,” said Cadet Heffner. It was a major success for both the city and ourselves to see how much joy it brought to those who came. |
Hot rods, 1950’s Pontiacs, and even more amazing things can be found at Autos for Autism, a non-profit charity event. Workers/volunteers from Garden City High Schools AFJROTC class helped with this summer event and had their very own Color Guard to start the event by presenting the colors to the singing of the National Anthem. Anything from counting votes for a winning car, to selling food and drinks at the concession stands, each cadet did their part to help. “It was truly an amazing event, so many interesting cars to see and activities to do,” said Cadet Heffner. It was a major success for both the city and ourselves to see how much joy it brought to those who came.
Unit Assessment
|
MI-861 marked its calendar for the Unit Assessment for October 25th and anticipated its arrival with determination. Months preparation paid off as our cadets shined during the inspection. The morning began with a mass formation that included ALL the cadets in the corps. The inspector, Mr. Atkins, observed each and every cadet’s uniforms asking how their day was going and about their uniform. “He could tell we were nervous so he made us all try to relax a little bit and I
|
really appreciated that, “ shared Cadet Hammer. Our cadets who participated in the thirty step drill command knocked his socks off. Weeks of practice made their movements crisp and clear. The inspector gathered them together and gave a celebratory cheer. Following the drill sequence, Mr Atkins awarded the Top Performer award to cadets Cornelius and Schwarze. Their motivation added on with others, encouraged and motivated cadets throughout the inspection. Mr. Atkins went through his process to see how our unit works and grade us accordingly. The Cadet briefing gave him an insight into how the cadets perceive and run the corps. From our PT program every Friday to running the class, our program is very open to the cadets to take initiative and learn leadership skills. We proudly showed Mr. Atkins each part of the program and were able to finish the day with smiles on our faces. Due to all of our hard work, determination, and dedication displayed, Mr. Atkins decided to grade us as “Exceeding Expectations”. This means our unit will receive the Distinguished Unit with Merit ribbon for each cadet. “When I heard the news I was so overjoyed and relieved. Everyone played a part in this and I am so gratified to share this achievement with all of my hardworking staff.” Said, Cadet Schwarze.
Oath Ceremony
October 8th, 2019 marked the day we welcomed new cadets into the program and made their families proud. This event took hard work and lots of communication and teamwork to set up. It was definitely worth it to see the smiles on the faces of the new cadets and their parents. Cadets arrived at the school and assembled in the cafeteria, new cadets waited anxiously to be marched out into the commons and presented in front of their families. The event explained a bit about
|
|
the organizational structure of the Corps and was a chance to recognize cadets that currently hold key positions. Cadets then came up and expressed our core values and gave an insight on the wonderful program they are participating in. To top off the evening all our new first year cadets rose and recited the oath making a commitment to the corps in hopes to make it the best it can be. Snacks, drinks and a congratulatory cake was served after the event for those who desired it. Several parents and cadets were heard mentioning how smooth the program went and that it was an enjoyable event.
Lincoln Park Drill Meet
|
On October 5th, 8 cadets went and participated in Lincoln Park’s 9th annual color guard competition. This was the first time we have been to Lincoln Park HS to compete in a drill. This meet consisted of entirely color guard teams from all across the state of Michigan. Our junior varsity color guard placed third! Cadet Sabbagh placed 1st in the advanced unarmed knockout. “It was a fun experience and everyone that competed had good sportsmanship,” said Cadet Sabbagh.
|
Two of the cadets, Cornelius and Tyson, placed 2nd and 7th in the first-year unarmed knockout. Cadet Wood placed 8th in the advanced armed knockout. Overall, we enjoyed the event and look forward to upcoming drill competitions!
Pep Assembly
AFJROTC Cadets presented the colors to start off the Fall Sports Pep Assembly. Cadet Wood shares, “I love participating in color guard events and showing everyone what an honor it is to present the colors.” What a great day to show some cougar pride! By showing our pride we had all the students rise for the pledge of allegiance. Finally, we put on a little show before leaving.
Homecoming Parade
This year for the Homecoming football game, our cadets had the honor of leading the Parade. We marched from the high school parking lot to the track field, where we went around a few times. Thanks to our wonderful color guard cadets kept proper pace and step. It was a very successful evening not only for our cadets but for the football team as well. “I’m so glad we won against Romulus by a landslide, 35-0. Go Cougars!” Cadet Lee exclaimed.
|
|
Shoe Shining Party
|
Most of the people that were on the sign up sheet were there, some of which brought their shoes and shined them. We had some returning cadets also show up to help teach others, such as Wood, Julien, and myself. Over all we had a good turn out with numbers, and everyone there paid attention along with shining their shoes if they had them. Everyone that went had not only a fun time and learned a valuable lesson, but learned how to work as a team.
|
GC Park Cleanup
Saturday, September 21st, AFJROTC held our annual Garden City Park clean up. It was a fun and very helpful event for our community park. Cadets who attended picked up trash in the whole park to make it a better place for both people and animals. We had some cadets stop on their walks around in search of trash to tell us their thoughts. As Cadet Papazian stated with joy ”This event was fun and nice for our community.” ”This was one of the biggest turn outs we ever had and it was a great experience for the first years to meet some of the upperclassmen,” as said by Cadet Schwarze. Our best turn out so far was enjoyed by all who attended.
|
|
Field Day
|
On Friday, September 20, 2019 AFJROTC held our annual field day which was a thrilling event. The whole day was dedicated to team bonding and enjoying the nice weather as a core together. During field day cadets participated in various games, those being: tug of war, kickball, 4X100 meter dash,softball and soccer. We had volunteers from cadet’s parents come out to help cook and serve hot dogs for lunch.Cadet Lee states with a heart of joy, ”Field day was an exciting event, I can’t wait for next year’s field day.” “This was one of
|
our biggest turnouts and I had a lot of fun cheering on for my teammates and classmates. This is an excellent team bonding event.” Cadet Olechowski said “We even had our local Marine recruiters come out to be referees for our games. They love to do this for us and are awaiting for next year’s field day.” At the end of the day the winning team was announced and everyone came together for a picture. The winning fight was Charlie! Overall the 2019 annual Field Day was successful.
Military Football Game
The Cadets from GCHS JROTC attended one of the most important games of the year. Friday September 12, from 7-8:30 pm the varsity cougars football team played a hard game, they played in honor of the veterans of the Westland area. The stands were filled with many men and women of all ages that fought for our freedom. At half time the JV football players, and all cheerleaders showed a great act of honor by holding a large American Flag that spread halfway across the field, as stood |
|
tall and proud everyone in the stands stood for the national anthem. As the game ended with a score of 21-12, many veterans were called to walk on the lighted field and there courage and bravery was honored by a standing ovation and many thanks. As Cadet Dunn stated “The game was great, and it was a good way to celebrate the veterans in garden city.” It was clear that everyone had an enjoyable night.
Ice Cream Social
|
On the 12th of September AFJROTC held our annual event, "Ice Cream Social." We saw an incredible turnout, with more than half of our cadets showing up with their guests too! Everyone was excited to have ice cream and play nine square together. Cadet Booth even exclaimed, "My favorite part was nine square because at one point someone in the military joined in, and Colonel even played a bit too!" All of the students involved that day had a blast, and we would like to send a big thank you to everyone who helped run the event, especially Cadet Leleniewski who hosted it!
|
Open House
Wednesday September 11, 6:15-8pm. During the first GCHS open house student to show their parents their classes and for parents to discuss with teachers. JROTC set up a table in the commons and informed incoming students and parents about JROTC. Sgt was stationed in the room giving a group presentation to parents who wanted to know more about the corps. As cadet Schwarze stated “It was a great way for our new cadets to take initiative and tell others about the Corp. It was so nice to see everyone coming together to help recruit others.” |
|
Great Bacon Run
|
Run, run, run as far and as fast as you can. The great Bacon run took place in the long, hot summer day. In great heat, our cadets from Garden City Highschool both volunteered and participated in the run. The course was filled with the smiling faces of many people of all ages. Both water bottles and pieces of bacon were handed out after the run. As cadet Carter Doughterty stated, “I had an amazing time, but trying to stay cool was pretty difficult in the heat of the summer sun.”
|
Autos for Autism Play Ushers (Into the Woods)
Starting the 8th of August and ending on the 11th of August, both students and faculty, along with family members of the cast were ecstatic about the annual summer play hosted by Garden City High School “Into The Woods.” Our AFJROTC cadets were there to welcome everyone into the auditorium for the incredible show. Every night the play just got better and better with the live performances from the students in the theater, as Cadet Schwarze stated: “I had a great time ushering and, it was nice to greet families coming to see the show, which was phenomenal each night!” The audience sure did appreciate the help provided by the cadets.
|
American Legion Picnic
|
Cadets from the MI-861 Corps had an early start to their day. From 9am-6pm on Sunday, August 4th, cadets Major, Ironside, Litwalk, Heffner and more helped prepare and serve food at the American Legion picnic. As said by Cadet Heffner, “It's very nice to see the smiling faces of all the veterans and to help serve. Serving is the best!” The time was well enjoyed by both the Veterans and Cadets as the young volunteers were provided a free meal for their participation and amazing hard work.
|
Autos for Autism
Hot rods, 1950’s Pontiacs, and even more amazing things can be found at Autos for Autism, a non-profit charity event. Workers/volunteers from Garden City High Schools AFJROTC class helped with this summer event and had their very own Color Guard to start the event by presenting the colors to the singing of the National Anthem. Anything from counting votes for a winning car, to selling food and drinks at the concession stands, each cadet did their part to help. “It was truly an amazing event, so many interesting cars to see and activities to do,” said Cadet Heffner. It was a major success for both the city and ourselves to see how much joy it brought to those who came.