The Cadet Corner Volume 8 I MARCH 2025

Cadet of the month / C/2nd Lt. Ayden Perkins

This month's cadet of the month is the one and only C/2nd Lt. Ayden Perkins. Perkins has been a crucial part of the maintenance of this program. Behind the scenes he works harder than any of his peers. Recently Perkins has gained the title of Academic Officer for his strong contributions as NCOIC.

Our staff interviewed Perkins and he answered as following:

What's your favorite part about JROTC?

"The community, I've met some of the nicest, most caring people. Some of my closest friends I have met are out of AFJROTC and are what makes the program so great."

What advice would you give to current/ future cadets?

"The best advice I could give is to be apart of the program. Don't just take the class as a class but immerse yourself with the people, LDR's, and the program as a whole, to build that sense of community and integrity in yourself."

What are your hobbies/extracurriculars?

"I do Boy Scouts of America (BSA). I also enjoy hiking, camping and exploring outdoors."

How has JROTC impacted you?

"JROTC has gave me some of my closest friends and helped me understand concepts I wouldn't learn anywhere else. It stands out as an excellent leadership class and will be the most impactful high school class I've taken."

A big thank-you to Perkins for his time and all he's done behind the scenes to make this program great.

Air Force JROTC News

Military Ball

The military ball was a beautiful example of the love and friendship we share in and out of the classroom. It's a reminder that if this program didn't exist, neither would the bonds and relationships we've formed.

"What a Night to Remember! 🎉🇺🇸Last night’s AFJROTC KY-20003 Military Ball was absolutely incredible! ✨ From the elegant atmosphere to the camaraderie shared among cadets, instructors, and guests, it was a night filled with pride and celebration.A huge shoutout to everyone who helped make this event so special—from the cadets who looked sharp in their attire to the dedicated staff and volunteers who made it all possible. The food was delicious, and the dance floor was alive with energy!Events like these remind us of the strong bonds that are built in JROTC and the values they uphold—integrity, service, and excellence.#AFJROTC #KY20003 #MilitaryBall #Honor #Service #Excellence" -Bernie Ayers, volunteer and cadet parent

Unit Inspection

February 24, our Detachment underwent a formal evaluation. This tested our ability as a whole to not only determine if we meet Air Force standards but also uniform wear, classroom instruction, facility management, administration support as well as our skill in performing basic drill and color guard. During the visit, two of our Cadets were awarded with the "Top Performer Ribbon" this is significant as only 2 percent of our detachment can be awarded this. To earn this ribbon you must have a great display of discipline, excellence and contribution to the growth of our program.

C/Cap Dwight Bednara and C/SSgt Gabbi Shultz

Kentucky National Guard Trip

Our trip to the Kentucky Air National Guard was the first of our field trips this year. CIA (Curriculum In Action) trips are important to the learning growth of our detachment. Cadets are able to take what they are learning and put it into perspective, a great way for students who learn more visually and physically. On this trip cadets were able to learn about the importance and function of the Air Force in person, relaying that back to their studies in Aerospace Science.

Skate Night

For the first time ever, we hosted an event where both cadets and their families could get together, socialize and have fun. 80's skate night was not only full of color but kindness and unison.

Reserves

This year the Reserve Cadet program has grown more than ever before. Each Wednesday afterschool students got together to build friendships and learn valuable life skills. Here is a list of each event we've done recently:

  • February 26th: Reserve cadets did the deck of pain workout and played kickball afterwards.
  • March 5th: Reserve cadets worked on drill and newer attendees were educated on the basics of drill movements.
  • March 12: Reserves Rotated doing a workout, drill, and eventually tug of war. The drill practice attendees competed with the reserves, and the reserves ended up winning.
  • March 19th: The reserves had a party where they ate snacks and played dodgeball. This was the last week of reserves, however they will be a part of the field day on April 30th.

Recruiting

Recruiting is one of the main ways we directly reach out. By hosting recruiting events we're able to answer questions and listen to the feedback presented by our community.

  • February 4, 2025: OKH Recruiting event
  • February 11, 2025: NCHS Recruiting event
  • February 13, 2025: Thomas Nelson Rush Recruiting event
  • February 13, 2025: Bloomfield/OKH 8th Grade Recruiting event
  • February 17, 2025: NCHS/Bardstown High School Recruiting event
  • February 25, 2025: Thomas Nelson Recruiting event
  • February 25, 2025: NCHS Recruiting event
  • February 26, 2025: OKH Recruiting event
  • February 26, 2025: Bloomfield Recruiting event
  • February 27, 2025: NCHS Recruiting event
Recruiting Events held on February 17th and 25th at NCHS and BHS.

This month, our detachment developed a new Recruitment Video in conjunction with Nelson County Communications Coordinator Mariah Beasley. A big thank-you to her for her time and hard-work.

Aerospace Science Curriculum

Aerospace Science 100: Milestone in Aviation History This is the first AS course for all new cadets. It is an aviation history course focusing on the development of flight throughout the centuries. It starts with ancient civilizations and flight, then progresses through time to future developments in aerospace, with an introduction into cyber technologies. The intent is to bring alive the significant discoveries in flight a reality. This book tells the story of why we are so proud of our Air Force heritage ─ laying the foundation for future Air Force JROTC aerospace science courses. Throughout the course 21st century learning is adopted with readings, video clips, hands-on learner centered activities, and chapter project-based learning opportunities. So far this semester cadets have studied historical facts and impacts of the early attempts of heavier-than-air flight. They analyzed the impact World War I aviation had on warfare and the circumstances that led to WWII. Now we are just beginning to learn and examine the . Examine the role U.S. Army Air Corps aerial bombing had on the outcome of World War II.

Fun (MWR) Day

Recently we aquired equipment to play 9 Square in the Air. We took this oppurtunity to have a stress relief day after the Unit Assessment and had the additional options of basketball or volleyball. Unit fun days are important for stress relief. They provide a break that allows us to recharge both mentally and physically. A happier, less stressed team is often more productive, as we can return to work feeling refreshed and motivated.

Cadet Accomplishments

Over these last few months, our cadets have been putting in 100% effort. A few of these individuals however have went above and beyond that. These following cadets we are sincerely proud of for their hardworking and dedication.

Senior C/Maj Abrianna Harris has been accepted into the University of Kentucky to study Pre-Public Health.

C/Maj. Harris after commanding a colorguard.

C/AB Leeah Sauter placed 1st place overall in her Paducah Kentucky wrestling match. Sauter was undefeated with 3 pins and 3 wins, big congratulations to Cadet Sauter.

Local Ribbons and Awards

Over the course of the school year cadets, who have earned them, have been awarded Ribbons and Arc Pins. Of these awards handed out are:

  • Patriotic Flag- (Earned by participating in 5 or more flag details or ceremonies)
  • Activities- (Earned by being apart of extracurriculars or organizations outside of JROTC)
  • Color Guard- (Successfully participating in 10 color guard details)
  • Drill Team- (Being apart of the drill team consecutively)
  • Raiders- (Being and remaining apart of the raiders team consecutively)
  • Color Guard Arc- (Commanding 5 color guard details successfully)
  • Raiders Arc- (Successfully competing in 2 competitions)
  • J-Lab- (Consecutively being apart of the J-Lab team)
  • Staff Arc- (PBE/ Co-op students who are in good standing)
  • Top Performer- (Presented during a visit from HQ personnel to the top 2 percent of cadets highly involved in the program)
Cadets receiving their Patriotic Flag Ribbon.

NCHS cadets holding up their certificates after excelling in the school wide writing.

Left to right: Ayden Perkins, Andrew Thompson, Gabriel Hurst, Gavin Ayers, Gavin Greenwell, Joseph Koons, and Elijah Hagan.
Announcements 📣

Spring Break Dates:

Bardstown: March 24 - April 4th 2025

Nelson County: March 31 - April 4th 2025

Field Day - 2025

Field Day will be held on April 30th at NCHS. Cadets and Reserve Cadets will be involved in physical activities, games, challenges and food to cap off an amazing year!

Bataan Death March

The Bataan Death March is a memorial march remembering thousands of prisoners of war, forced to walk along Bataan by the Imperial Army. Those who shown weakness or inability to continue were promptly executed. KY-20003 makes it their mission to remember this tragedy by completing an annual 14 mile hike. Cadets who participate and complete the entire 14 mile trail will receive a Bataan Death March ribbon as well as an event T-Shirt. This event will take place on Saturday April 19th and is sponsored by the local VFW Post.

Reserves

Weekly Reserve Cadet meetings have ended for this year, however that doesn't mean that the door for Reserves have completely closed. April 30th, our detachment is hosting a field day event, inviting all Reserve Cadets who participated in this years program. We hope to see each and every one of them there!

Taking the next step I Sydney Freese

This month PA staff reached out to former Cadet Operations Squadron Commander, Sydney Freese. Freese was a big contributor to our program in her 4 years. In her life after JROTC, she went on to study at Eastern Kentucky University to complete her degree in social work. In her spare time she babysits and likes to reconnect with her friends. Her favorite part about being on her own is getting to travel and experience new things.

J-Factor Forms

Shout-Out to Abigail Williams and Mackenzie Williamson From Vivian Blaine:

Thank-You for creating the sign-up genius to help with the military ball planning and keeping track of anything else needing to get done. We appreciate all your help.

Shout-Out to Andrew Thompson From Skyler Humphrey:

He cleaned up trash from the tennis courts mid-run

Shout-out to Koons, Gimenez and Roach From Anonymous

For staying after lunch and helping Mrs. Sekulski stack chairs

Shout out to Waylon Myles From Perkins

Myles shows constant spirit & brings his fellow cadets up on a daily basis.

Shout out to Bacorn from Anonymous

Keep putting in that effort on the Raiders Team

Shout out to Barnes from Anonymous

Great job on achieving your Patriotic Flag Ribbon

Shout out to Simon from Anonymous

Good job on recruiting cadets for our program

Shout out to Jeramiah Allen from Anonymous

You have great potential to become an outstanding leader

Shout out to Camden Basham from Anonymous

You are the motivation for others during PT

Shoutout to Amylah Taylor from Vivian Blaine

For pushing yourself during PT despite health challenges

Shoutout to Kaidence Wilson from Vivian Blaine

All the participation you do for the program

Shoutout to Kristie Day from Vivian Blaine

Good job on the work for the Cadet Corner

Shout out to Ayers, Bednara, and Bottom from Anonymous

For helping with big projects and always being willing to accept a new task and help others with their tasks

Shout out to Miguel Watson from Anonymous

For caring and worrying about others before himself, demonstrating our second core value to a high degree

Shout out to Jayden Brock from Vivian Blaine

Thank you for being quiet and respectful while lessons are going on.

Shout out to Gavin Ayers from anonymous

For being a great leader during PT

Shout out to Violet Smith from Vivian Blaine

Your confidence has grown, keep being comfortable with being uncomfortable

Shout out to Gavin Greenwell from Simon Jett

You are well educated, very fit, and my 'not getting called on by MSgt Davis' buddy. I am proud to have you in my element and look forward to being in the Aerospace Collab with you next year

SASI Section

AFJROTC Unit Assessment, 80's Skate Night, Kentucky Air National Guard Curriculum-In-Action Trip, followed by more BINGO and capped off with the Military Ball (whew, talk about a busy month)!! Again, please check out our Facebook Page (AFJROTC KY-20003) or Instagram Page (afjrotcky_20003) for everything KY-20003. Next up in April will be our Bataan Memorial March (Saturday April 19th), the End of Year Awards Banquet (Friday April 25th) and the AFJROTC Field Day Event (Wednesday April 30th).

We also concluded our Reserve Cadet Program for this school year but went out with a bang hosting a St Patrick's Day Party (followed by a little dodgeball). With that, all of our 6th, 7th and 8th-grade Reserve Cadets are invited to next month's Field Day Event (host school dependent). We are very excited about their interest & enthusiasm regarding the program.

From all of us instructors, just wanted to thank Sam & Sherry Johnson, David & January Blaine, Pam Blaine, Bernie Ayers, Cornell Harris, Jeremy Shultz, Robyn Thompson, Sarah Bottom, Stephen Greenwell and several other cadet parents who have donated items and volunteered time to contribute to our next generation (it takes a village)!! If any cadet parent is interested in becoming a vetted chaperone for next school year, please reach out to me at: jason.rowe@nelson.kyschools.us

Parents, please continue to encourage your student(s) (if applicable) to continue working on their online Health & Wellness Course (they need to complete it / pass it to receive credit for high school graduation requirements). Special shout out to Senior Cadet Elianna Bottom for everything that she has done this year with the AFJROTC Newsletter (she is more on the quiet side but loves this program). Again, thank you all for your continued support...Maj Jason Rowe

Messages from MSgt Davis

According to Merriam-Webster, Fear is defined as; an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger.

It is a natural and often beneficial part of the "fight or flight" response, a survival mechanism that prepares the body to either confront a threat or escape it, increasing energy and focus. You might be scared of speaking in public, afraid of heights, or so worried about making the wrong choices in life that you remain stagnant. Whatever your specific fear may be, just know that feeling afraid is a normal, human experience. Everyone has something that makes their heart race and their palms sweat, but fear doesn’t have to stop you moving forward.

We’re not saying it’s easy, but you can learn to face your fears, and eventually embrace them. When you take control of your life, one small step at a time, you may discover that your fears don’t actually run the show — you do.

Get out there and face your fears and do hard things! Life is worth exploring — no skydiving required (unless you want to).

CREATED BY
Elianna Bottom

Credits:

Jason Rowe, Craig Davis, Kris Day, Makayla Everett, Charlie Denzik, Simon Jett, and Eliza Jones