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MAIDEN, N.C. - The Maiden High School Air Force Junior ROTC was selected as a Distinguished Unit with Merit for the 2023 School Year.

This year, only 12 percent of the 850 Air Force JROTC high schools across the United States and at selected schools in Europe, in the Pacific, and in Puerto Rico were recognized with the honor.

The Air Force Junior ROTC instructors and cadets earned an overall unit-assessment rating of “Exceeds Standards” – the highest rating attainable – during their unit evaluation in November. Additionally, Maiden’s JROTC Instructors received recognition as recipients of the “2023 AFJROTC Outstanding Instructor Award” presented to the top JROTC Instructors each year. This award represents the exemplary contributions and impacts on their cadets, school, and community.

These awards represent the hard work, community service, dedication to self-improvement, and enthusiasm the students have for this program. It recognizes a history of excellence and service as the unit prepares to celebrate 30 years since its founding in 1993. It was the first JROTC unit in Catawba County Schools.

The Maiden instructors are Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Joseph “J.” Thomas IV and Chief Master Sergeant (Ret.) Jerry Harms, Jr.

The objectives of the Air Force JROTC program are to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship and leadership; promote community service; instill responsibility, character, and self-discipline through character education, and to provide instruction in air and space fundamentals. Air Force JROTC is not a recruiting organization, and military service is not a requirement for enrollment in the program.

Worldwide enrollment includes more than 100,000 cadets who do more than 1 million hours of community service each year. This award recognizes Air Force JROTC units that have performed well above and beyond normal expectations, and that have distinguished themselves through outstanding service to their school and community while meeting the Air Force JROTC citizen development mission for America.

For information, call the Air Force JROTC department at Maiden High School, 828-428-8197.

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