HAMPTON, Va. –
Cadets from Hampton High School's Air Force Junior ROTC unit received the 2009-2010 Distinguished Unit Award with Merit June 8 for outstanding service to the school and surrounding community.
The unit, number VA-041, earned the award for performing above and beyond normal expectations, distinguishing themselves through outstanding service while meeting the Air Force Junior ROTC mission of producing better citizens for America.
"Our goals seek to motivate cadets to seek academic excellence with individual and flight grade performance in all classes," said retired Maj. Paul Willard, the unit's senior aerospace science instructor. "The cadets strive to minimize discipline issues in the school and absences, participate in school activities and involvement in community service projects."
Willard said the cadets have a reputation of excellence, providing community service by raising thousands annually for Relay for Life, Angel Tree and Adopt-a-Soldier. The corps also participates in canned food drives and recently contributed donations for Haitian earthquake relief efforts.
The cadets "broke into a round of applause" upon receiving the award, said Willard.
"Receiving the award recognizes their work and sweat," he added. "The cadets appreciated the Air Force recognizing their tireless work in the unit."
The unit has a distinguished color guard and is in high demand in the community and the school, Willard added.
"Every event and group at Hampton High requests the color guard for their events," he said.
The unit boasts more than 200 cadets, and is the largest Air Force Junior ROTC unit in Virginia public schools.
"Our Air Force Junior ROTC unit is the 'go to' organization in our school," said school principal Myra Chambers. "We rely on them for any large challenge that comes to Hampton High and we know they will make it happen."
Willard echoed the principal's sentiments, applauding the cadets' dedication to upholding an image of professionalism and excellence.
"In my 10 years of association with AFJROTC units, Hampton has the one of the highest 'ops tempos' of any unit I have seen," he said. "They are constantly representing our school and Air Force, not only in the school but throughout the Hampton Roads area."