On April 25 JROTC hosted its annual military ball in the main gym at our school. Where cadets got to dress up, congregate, and find out the plans for the next school year. This year was special, though. This year is CSM Cribb’s last year as one of the instructors. The cadets planned to surprise her with gifts and a special video at the end of the night.

“I’m most excited for all of CSMS’ gifts she’ll be getting,” Santiago said. “HHC cadets went out of their way to find gifts for her and a video of her favorite memories!”

This year’s theme was silver and purple, two of CSM’s favorite colors. Every cadet was excited to see the final product of the decorations, and everyone dressed up. It was a formal event, so men dressed in their issued uniforms, and women came dressed in long, elegant dresses. 

“I have high expectations for the decorations. In the past years, HHC has worked really hard to get the decorations perfect!” Said Aiden Stauch. 

During the ceremony they passed on the top four, which is our leaders who help run and manage the entire program, for the school year. Every cadet was passing their predictions for the new year. 

“Hopefully me, but I think Adam will be up there.” Stauch said. “Holden, Adam, Hitt, and Downing are all candidates.”

The event was beautiful with lots of purple dresses and parents out to see their seniors. This year, both parents and cadets went through the receiving line, getting a formal entrance and a picture taken. 

“One of the most surprising things to me was the amount of presenters we had this year.” Stauch said

Usually, cadets receive awards and medals from the leadership, but we had lots of retired and current military members come to present awards to hard-working cadets. 

“I feel like we gave out way more rewards this year, especially to the LET ones.” James Westmoreland said. 

Not only were there way more awards, but a lot more were given to first-year cadets. Truly showing the work and effort that they have put into the JROTC program. And tons of cadets received the superior cadet metal helping recognize them for their commitment to their community and company. 

Overall, this year’s military ball was filled with lots of achievements and a tear-jerking goodbye to our beloved CSM Cribb. Many cadets are excited to see how the program changes or even holds up with her retirement.