Gaffney High JROTC unit ranked ‘outstanding’

Gaffney High JROTC cadets stand at attention Friday during a visit by Col. Wade Williford. The officer conducted a 3-year national inspection of the school's JROTC leadership program. The Gaffney High Air Force Junior ROTC received an oustanding evaluation Oct. 30 after a national inspection by Col. Wade Williford.

Gaffney High exceeded standards in every area on the 3-year inspection done by Williford, who oversees JROTC units in North Carolina and South Carolina. Gaffney High has been named one of the nation’s distinguished units for seven straight years.

The Air Force has JROTC units in more than 900 high schools in the United States, Europe and Puerto Rico. Junior ROTC units are evaluated in all areas including student achievement, facilities, community service activities, and cadet involvement in program operations.

Cherokee County Superintendent Dr. Bill James and Gaffney High Principal Marlene Davis attended the national inspection. Williford sent a personal note about the inspection results to JROTC instructors Lt. Col. Morris Miller and Chief MSgt. Randall Byars.

There are 128 cadets enrolled in the Gaffney High JROTC program this year.

“The majority of cadets come from single parent and nontraditional homes causing significant challenges in developing their life/academic skills,” Williford said. “Nevertheless, the unit has a remarkable record of graduating 100 percent of its seniors, as compared to the school’s graduation rate of 87 percent over the past 3 school years. During the same period, the unit’s seniors have earned 2 ROTC scholarships and a remarkable 37 other scholarships.”

Air Force JROTC units work with high school cadets to develop citizenship, leadership skills, self-discipline and character. Students receive instruction in air and space fundamentals.

Gaffney High cadets have already completed more than 1,100 community service hours this year working with the Special Olympics, Meals on Wheels, Adopt-A-Highway, parades and Color Guard duties. The JROTC will participate in Veterans Day celebrations Saturday in Gaffney and Cowpens.

“This was the best overall performance of any unit I have evaluated this year,” Williford said. “The school administrators and instructors are a superb team. I fully expect the unit to again earn the Distinguished Unit Award (with Merit.)”