Arlington High's 61st Eagle Squadron passed its first Higher Headquarters (HHQ) unit evaluation with flying colors, earning the highest rating attainable from Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), according to Colonel Richard J. Ragaller, director of the Air Force JROTC.

Superintendent Kristine McDuffy surprised cadets at their annual banquet by announcing the results of their evaluation.

"We are extremely proud of your accomplishments, and thank you for your exceptional service to our school district and community," McDuffy said.

"The instructors and cadets of Arlington High School earned an overall unit assessment score of 'Exceeds Standards,' the highest rating attainable," Col. Ragaller reported. "Instructors Major Mike Blue and Master Sergeant Al Moore created a dynamic and supportive learning environment, resulting in a cadet-centered citizenship program coupled with an excellent community outreach."

The HHQ evaluator was so impressed with the local program, he plans to incorporate dozens of AHS JROTC "Best Practices" in other units.

The AFJROTC program at Arlington High School focuses heavily on citizenship and promotes community involvement. Most recently the 61st Eagle Squadron helped install over 450 American flags at the cemetery for Memorial Weekend and marched in the Memorial Day Parade.

Cadet Anthony Morehead stated, "Doing community service really makes me feel like I'm part of something important and like I'm making a difference in the community. On Memorial Day I was one of two cadets handing out the U.S. flags from the back of a truck. Every flag had a name tag on it to represent a fallen soldier from Arlington. After about 20 minutes passing out the flags it hit me...every one of those names has a history behind it, a family who loves them, and friends who miss them. I handed out over 200 flags with renewed pride and humility."

Cadets also tutor elementary school students, partner with school clubs to support needy families during the holidays and assist with various community events. Again this year, cadets will partner with Arlington VFW Post 1561 and the Stilly Valley Pioneer Museum to perform an annual Flag Retirement ceremony on Flag Day, June 14.

The goal of AFJROTC is to "develop citizens of character." Arlington High's 61st Eagle Squadron's motto is "Integrity, Service, Excellence." The elective course acquaints students with aerospace history and technology while helping teens develop citizenship, responsibility, organization, leadership and strength of character. College-bound students may earn a military service academy nomination and have the opportunity to qualify for college scholarships.

The AHS AFJROTC Color Guard is honored by frequent requests to perform at various community events. The students were invited to be a part of the 100th anniversary of the George Washington Memorial dedication at the University of Washington, and on Saturday, June 6, they will take part in the Seattle Mariners' game opening ceremony.

Arlington School District partners with the Air Force to provide this unique program opportunity for students. The Air Force provides half of the base salary for the two program instructors, provides annually for program expenses and has invested almost $50,000 for curricular materials, technology and uniforms.





Photos Attached:

Cadet Deona Pineda, AFJROTC Color Guard, AHS Junior

AFRJOTC Cadets installing flags at Arlington Cemetery Memorial Weekend 2009