In a spirited gathering at the Mississippi Board of Education meeting on February 15, 2024, the spotlight shone brightly on four exceptional students who were honored with the prestigious Legion of Valor Bronze Cross for Achievement. This award, a rare accolade presented to only 26 Army JROTC cadets worldwide in 2023, recognizes outstanding excellence in military and academic subjects, as well as leadership and community involvement.

As the meeting commenced, Mr. Sparks expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent his school, emphasizing that the recognition truly belonged to the dedicated faculty, parents, and students who have supported the cadets throughout their journeys. The atmosphere was filled with pride as each cadet took the stage to share their accomplishments and express their gratitude.

Cadet Lincoln Jones, a senior at Florence High School, stood out as the battalion executive officer of his JROTC program. With a remarkable GPA of 4.0 and an ACT score of 32, he has not only excelled academically but also contributed over 300 hours of community service. Jones plans to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, majoring in Computer Engineering.

Next, Cadet Caitlin Hulsey from Northwest Rankin High School, the battalion commander of her JROTC program, shared her journey. With a GPA of 4.0 and an ACT score of 30, she has set a state pole vault record and plans to major in biochemical engineering at the University of Mississippi. Hulsey expressed her gratitude to her instructors and peers, acknowledging their role in her success.

Cadet Ethan Young from Brandon High School, who also received the award, highlighted his commitment to leadership and discipline. With aspirations to study Mechanical Engineering at Mississippi State University, he reflected on the support he received from his JROTC instructors and family, which helped him navigate the challenges of his application process.

Finally, Cadet Mohammed Akwari from Hattiesburg High School, who ranked in the top 5% of his class, spoke passionately about the collective effort behind his achievements. With plans to attend Pennsylvania State University for Computer Engineering, he expressed heartfelt thanks to his family and mentors, emphasizing the importance of community support in his journey.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board members took a moment to recognize the contributions of Ellis Reiser, the director of Rankin County's JROTC program, who is preparing for retirement. His impact on the cadets and the quality of JROTC programs across the state was acknowledged with deep appreciation.

This gathering not only celebrated individual accomplishments but also highlighted the vital role of education and mentorship in shaping the future leaders of Mississippi. The cadets' stories serve as a testament to the power of dedication, community, and the pursuit of excellence.