Washington High School’s Air Force JROTC Honored

Cadets from the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Washington High School have earned special recognition for their outstanding performance.

The unit was awarded the Distinguished Unit with Merit designation, the highest honor bestowed upon a group or organization.

For Air Force ROTC, the designation is a two-part award given by the program’s national headquarters.

The unit must perform exceptionally well during its formal inspection and receive a rating of “Exceeds Standard.” The unit must also average over 18 hours per cadet in community service.

The honor was announced during the Corps’ solemn 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Wednesday, September 10.

More than 200 cadets in full dress uniform gathered in formation at Washington High School for a powerful ceremony that included the presenting of colors, the playing of taps, the singing of the National Anthem, and a moving tribute honoring the lives lost and the heroes of 9/11.

Lieutenant Colonel Patrick McCormack delivered the surprise announcement at the ceremony.

However for him, it’s no surprise that his cadets received the special distinction. “The cadets put in a lot of hard work and dedication to achieve this award,” he shared. “Our inspection was canceled and rescheduled three times, and each time they were ready.”

McCormack praised last year’s leaders as outstanding, pointing out that their efforts laid a strong foundation for this year’s success. Despite facing numerous challenges, his current squad has persevered and forged ahead.

“I am very proud of these young people. Sometimes it is easy for an older generation to criticize young people, but if they were to meet our 240 cadets, they would know that there are some very amazing people in our rising generation.”  

According McCormack, this is the third time the corps at Washington High School has received this honor.

Congratulations.