The Air Force JROTC program at Independence High School Unit NC-022 recently received top recognition from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) Superintendent. These awards are coveted by the twenty JROTC programs within CMS.

The superintendent’s Cup is a standards-based competition, all twenty programs compete directly against high, but realistic and achievable benchmarks for each evaluated area. The Cup’s three primary pillars include, competition, performance, and character. These are the three important and key quality indicators in which all JROTC programs strive to achieve in their programs. This academic year 2018-2019 Independence JROTC earned a Silver Cup by achieving high standards of performance in the critical areas of emphasis which is a fine accomplishment.

The Distinguished Unit Award recognizes the personal growth and overall accomplishments of the cadets, the contribution of the instructors as mentors and role models of the brigade of cadets, including the support of the school and the community. The Distinguished Unit is limited to the very best of the best of the nation’s 900 Air Force JROTC units. The announcement was made by Colonel, Paul C. Lips, USAF, Director, HQ Air Force JROTC.

Independence was selected as one of 376 units to receive the award. The unit performed well above and beyond the normal expectations. The program distinguished themselves through outstanding service to their school and community while meeting and exceeding the Air Force JROTC citizen development mission for America.

The program focus remains to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship including learning life skills, promote community service, instill responsibility, purpose, accountability, character, and self discipline. Also, to provide education and instruction in aerospace science to the student cadets who are enrolled.

Air Force JROTC enrollment includes more than 120,000 cadets from the United States, Europe, Pacific, and Puerto Rico. Combined the cadets contribute over 1.6 million hours of community service each year.

For more information about the Independence High School Air Force JROTC program, please contact the principal Mr. David Legrand or directly to LTC, Jeffrey Jenkins, Senior Aerospace Instructor by calling 980-343-6900.