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Maxwell-Gunter Airmen judge Montgomery JROTC drill meet

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alexa Culbert
  • 42nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --  Nineteen Junior ROTC units competed in the Larry Jones Invitational Drill Meet hosted by Robert E. Lee High School, Montgomery, Alabama, Jan. 31.

The Junior ROTC units traveled from as far as Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida and throughout Alabama to have a chance to compete for the Commander's Trophy.

Out of all the schools competing, North Forsyth High School's Marine Corps Junior ROTC team from Cumming, Georgia, came out on top and left the meet with the Commander's Trophy.

Supporting the event were approximately 50 Maxwell-Gunter Airmen, who judged the cadets during the drill meet.

"I have a soft spot for Junior ROTC, and I came out to see the cadets compete and support them," said Capt. Darren Turner, 32nd Student Squadron flight commander from the Jeanne M. Holm Center for Accessions and Citizen Development's Officer Training School.

"I participated to see what our future holds in its armed force," said Master Sgt. Pearcea Witherspoon, Air Force Senior NCO Academy student. "They are our legacy,"

"Without the parent support and the surrounding base, I don't think we could have done it," said retired Master Sgt. Brennon McGuire, Air Force Junior ROTC instructor at Robert E. Lee High School.

"The event went exceptionally well, and the support provided was amazing," said retired Col. Antonia Douglas, Air Force Junior ROTC senior aerospace science instructor at Robert E. Lee High School.

While winning is great, McGuire hopes the cadets learn more from being a part of a drill team.

"First thing I hope is that it teaches them dedication and discipline," said McGuire. "Dedication to their team and dedication to making themselves better.

"These kids have a lot of blood, sweat and tears rolled up into this," he said. "These competitions are a perfect opportunity for them to go out and display their efforts."

Robert E. Lee High School has hosted the Larry Jones Invitational Drill Meet for more than 10 years and plans are already underway for next year's competition.