It Was A Very Good Year

When we look back at the 2008/9 academic year, it is hard to believe that we accomplished all that we did - and with a new instructor team, a new vision, and a new mind-set. But in retrospect, we achieved more than expected in every area. We didn't do everything we wanted to, but time constraints, scheduling priorities, and managing a tight budget forced us to put some projects on the back-burner. Regardless, we added new meaning to the words "service before self" and "excellence in all we do". We still have room for improvement - and we will - but the foundation has been laid for future success.

In the area of community service, we brought a fresh look to the school's exterior, donated 1,000 cans of food to the Salvation Army, shipped 6 boxes of "goodies" to troops in Afghanistan, supported Camp Spearhead, performed over 40 color guard presentations, conducted patriotic ceremonies, and supported every special event at the school. We also had a banner leadership year with participation in three drill competitions, an Armed Forces Day parade, and achievement in command positions at two leadership schools during the summer - and we hosted both those schools.

Obviously, when you work that hard, recognition will come your way. SC-954 was named a Distinguished Unit by the Air Force, and the Air Force Association recognized us with the "Sword of Excellence" as the top AFJROTC unit in the state of South Carolina. The Area Administrator inspected us in March and awarded "exceeds expectations" in all critical areas. Both instructors received the Air Force Outstanding Instructor Award, and Colonel Pittman was named "Teacher of the Year" by District Eight of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Both instructors also received special recognition from the State Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Our cadets also received numerous accolades. We presented over 30 awards at our annual awards ceremony including the most national awards ever. We presented the Distinguished Cadet Award to Kevin Hinnant and Ashley McCullough, and Josh Whitaker received the first "Lance Radford Leadership Award". Additionally, Mr. Radford received the first SC-954 "Sword of Honor" as the most outstanding supporter of the program for 2008/9. At leadership school, Daniel Lee recieved the Leadership Award for his performance as a Cadet Squadron Commander. Three cadets: Kevin Hinnant, Ashley McCullough, and Kim Bracewell also placed in our first ever "Voice of Democracy" contest - a national event.

And there were many more awards, and much more to brag about. But we have found the path to success. Look for an even better 2009/10 as the SC-954 "Generals" hit their stride.