AFJROTC cadets at Bob Jones react to unit’s stellar ratings

MADISON – Cadets in the Air Force Junior ROTC at Bob Jones High School remain in gratitude after their unit excelled in inspection assessment. Their overall rating was “Exceeds Standards.”

Lt. Col. Ethan Andrew Fury, a Bob Jones senior, confirmed that everyone involved in the inspection was doing their part correctly. He worked on the cadets’ inspection briefing. “The cadets who were briefing did a lot of ‘dry-runs’ before the actual briefing with Chief Master Sergeant Bruce Kenney. In dry-runs, we critiqued each other to brief our subjects better,” Fury said.

More than half of the cadets are new to AFJROTC but remained calm in answering Kenney’s questions.

“We received this honor because we are just great cadets,” Fury said. “Not only do we have a firm understanding of our cadet knowledge, but we have a great understanding of each other and our unit.”

Also a senior, Capt. Quincey Amacher prepared for assessment by working closely with the Wing Commander and Inspector General. “I prepared slides for the briefing and helped to make sure everyone got their part done,” Amacher said.

Amacher credits her unit’s stellar rating with their communication skills. “I made sure to do my part and communicate when there was an issue with those around me,” she said.

In AFJROTC, Amacher enjoys becoming acquainted with younger cadets and familiarizing herself with the entire unit.

During inspection, Cadet Shaniya Jacobs-Lanier received the “Outstanding Cadet” award, only presented every three years from the inspector. “A senior cadet prepares for inspection with weeks of studying cadet knowledge and helping underclassmen cadets,” Lanier said.

As a staff member, Lanier communicated progress of their young chapter of Kitty Hawk Air Society. As Elite Knights commander, Lanier reviewed the inaugural class’ activities, including pledge period; induction ceremony; service or fundraising projects; and challenges in hosting Trunk or Treat during COVID-19.

“Our instructors will get us back on track, but the corps is full of natural-born leaders willing to overcome challenges. Our ‘One Team’ rule gives each cadet a sense of importance. Encouraging, dedicated and hardworking are just a few traits that earned us the honor of exceeding standards,” Lanier said.

In AFJROTC, she appreciates the sense of family. “We all support each other in our accomplishments, regardless of our personal feelings,” Lanier said.

“The phrase ‘No man left behind’ motivates us. If a cadet cannot physically make it, we make a way. Everyone is loved and appreciated, regardless if they stay in the unit for all semesters or only a few,” Lanier said.