MADISON – Members of Madison American Legion, Post 229 presented two awards to cadets in Army Junior ROTC at the annual Awards Day at Sparkman High School.

The Army JROTC Battalion at Sparkman observed Awards Day on Jan. 29. During this ceremony, American Legion, Post 229 Commander Larry Vannoy and Americanism Chairperson Tom McKinney honored two deserving cadets with legion awards. The senior JROTC instructor at Sparkman selected the students who qualified for the recognition.

Cadet Elijah League received the American Legion Military Excellence Award. Recipients of this award have shown outstanding cadet performance, demonstrated qualities of dependability and good character, adhered to military discipline and showed leadership ability. These cadets also have fundamental and patriotic understanding of the JROTC training.

Cadet Abraham Nguyen earned the American Legion Scholastic Excellence Award. The Scholastic Excellence Award recognizes the cadet’s academic performance and/or achieving a scholastic ‘A’ in JROTC. Recipients rank in the upper 10 percent of the JROTC academic class, demonstrate outstanding qualities in military leadership and actively participate in constructive student activities, such as student organizations or sports. Each award consists of a medal, ribbon and certificate.

“Sparkman High School has been a great American Legion Post partner, assisting us with an honor guard during special events and placing flags and wreaths on veteran graves during holidays,” Vannoy said. “They always make themselves available when we need them, so we are proud to recognize outstanding cadets.”

The American Legion is a strong supporter of JROTC and ROTC programs across the United States. The purpose of American Legion’s youth award programs is to develop America’s future leaders by motivating and encouraging young people. The programs also recognize exceptional performance in the areas of JROTC, citizenship, Americanism, scholarship, music, athleticism and essay endeavors.

For more information about family programs, send postal mail to American Legion, Post 229; Post Adjutant Stacey Harring; P.O. Box 194, Madison, AL 35758. Individuals also can call 256-258-8534 or visit americanlegionpost229.org or Facebook/American Legion Post 229.