Colony Jr. ROTC program eans high marks

On April 10, the Colony High School Jr. ROTC program participated in the Regional Formal Information (RFI) and scored 583 points out of 600.

A two-person inspection team was sent from Fort Lewis Washington to evaluate the CHS Jr.ROTC program.

Major Pratt and Sgt. 1st Class Swofford gave Colony high marks in all areas, including attendance, knowledge of curriculum, drill and ceremonies, color guard performance, staff briefing, as well as inspections of staff and uniforms.

The scores earned Colony the "Honor Unit With Distinction" title, which allows a Gold Star to be worn by all cadets.

"Thanks to the hard work of the Colony High School Jr. ROTC, the RFI went over easier than we thought it would," said Cadet Maj. Kathryn Hermon, the battalion commander. "Now, Colony is able to keep its title, which it has held since 1995. I am especially proud of the cadets for their efforts."

Cadet Maj. Rachel Brewer, the former battalion commander and advisor to Hermon, said the team effort was rewarded.

"This was the toughest inspection we've had since I've been here, but everyone really pulled together, working hard and performing at their best to make it a great one," Brewer said. "I am proud to be part of a corps in which so many people dedicate their time and effort to achieve a goal."

The program's high scores were a tribute to today's youth, one cadet said.

"We are young people trained to be leaders in an adult society. This gave us a great chance to utilize our skills," said Cadet Sgt. Maj. Barrett Barge.

The next RFI for Colony is scheduled for 2005, when many of the current cadets will have graduated.