Madison American Legion donates to JROTC units

MADISON – During on-campus visits this fall, members of Madison American Legion, Post 229 presented cash donations to two Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps or JROTC programs in Madison City Schools and one in Madison County Schools.

Legionnaires with the Madison post donated to support the JROTC units affiliated with the U.S. Air Force at Bob Jones High School and with the U.S. Army at James Clemens High School and Sparkman High School. Post 229 also awards medals annually for academic achievement and military excellence.

“We have an outstanding relationship between our post and these three JROTC programs. The students regularly assist us in placement of flags and wreaths at deceased veterans’ graves, providing the honor guard at our Memorial Day ceremony, flag retirement ceremonies and much more,” Madison American Legion, Post 229 Commander Larry Vannoy said.

“For the first time, this year we are also sponsoring a JROTC program in the American Legion Junior Shooters Program, Commanders Cup competition being held at the Civilian Marksmanship Program Range at Anniston, Ala. on March 7, 2020,” Vannoy said.

At the donation presentation at Bob Jones, the Legionnaires and AFJROTC personnel who participated were Chief Master Sgt. Ellis Clark, Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Erin Shelton, Vannoy, Post 229 Americanism Chairman Tom McKinney, Madison City Schools board member Travis Cummings and Major Dr. Melissa Lacey.

At James Clemens, the individuals involved with the check presentation were Sergeant Major Samuel McCray, Vannoy, Cadet Isaiah Deleveau, Cadet Madison Fletcher, McKinney and Major Rezell Linen.

Sparkman High School’s presentation included Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd Nathan, Brianna Nyman, Braden Doty, McKinney, Vannoy, Abigail Kratsch, Sergeant 1st Class Carrie Brown, Caden Preston, Brady Mathison and Anthony Cruz.