Newsletter 2023-24 sy
Ronald reagan drill meet
november 18th, 2023
In the world of JROTC, competitions are a fantastic way to build comradery. There is a wide variety of teams our unit offers to cadets including, but not limited to: Male PT, Female PT, Academics and Armed Exhibition. With so many competitions, there are subsets such as the Raider Challenge. Our unit participates in two Raider Challenges throughout the year, and the first one happened this November. Besides the Raider Challenge, our unit competed with the academic team as well as in armed exhibitions with a soloist and a tandem. The day prior, we got to experience the festive small town of Fredericksburg, Texas. In Fredericksburg, the cadets made plenty of memories and had tons of fun exploring Main Street.
The Raider Challenge is originally a derivative of Army ROTC’s Ranger Challenge. What separates a Raider Challenge is a “through the woods” challenge, an individual fitness challenge, a rescue simulation, as well as first aid in some cases. Raider Challenges may differ in events depending on the host, but the spirit of raw grit and determination remains consistent. Accommodating the challenge is a ribbon, a symbol of physical and mental strength. (Although it is the color of the Las Vegas Raiders, there is no association.)
The first group of competitors was the Bobcat Bouncers, our male PT team, who performed a 5:49 run placing 6th out of 28 teams. The events consisted of 20 cadence pushups, a litter dash, army and bear crawls, various obstacles, a boat carry, a litter carry, a tire flip, and a sprint. The Bobcat Bouncers performed well, and our other teams enjoyed cheering them on. Simultaneously, the female PT team began their cadence pushups. The events the Bobcat Bruisers competed in were nearly identical to the Bobcat Bouncers, with the boat carry being swapped out for a total of 30 burpees. The Bobcat Bruisers tallied a 10:10 run.
Shortly thereafter, our armed exhibition soloist and tandem were scheduled to compete. Cadet Technical Sergeant Nate DeLaCruz performed a routine he constructed himself. In addition, Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Naiyah Reese as well as Cadet Technical Sergeant Bret Kure competed together as a tandem to their own routine. The cadets demonstrated hard work and dedication to their craft and watching their performances made our unit very proud! Congratulations to our soloists, you worked very hard, delighting and inspiring many others.
The final event of the day was our Bobcat Brainiacs, the academic team. The team was composed of some of our most intelligent cadets, who placed 3rd out of 18, with the best time of course! Academics in drill competitions are composed of a test and are separate from JLAB and the academic bowl. While the Bobcat Brainiacs were taking the test, the other cadets toured the hosting units building.
The drill competition was packed with fun, and the first our unit competed in for this academic school year. As it was the first, it was also the very first time competing for many Cadets. Cadet Airman First Class Joana Ezepue had to say: “My first competition was stressful and exhilarating, but I liked how supportive everyone was; before and after competition. I really thought my heart was going to bust out of my chest” as for the events overall, Cadet First Lieutenant Alyssa Roberts had to say “It was really fun and I’m proud of everyone for doing their best!” I really enjoyed this competition, and it is one of my favorites thus far. Congratulations to my fellow competitors, we worked really hard, and we’ve built a foundation for more drill competitions to come!
by C/TSgt Arabella Morales
The Raider Challenge is originally a derivative of Army ROTC’s Ranger Challenge. What separates a Raider Challenge is a “through the woods” challenge, an individual fitness challenge, a rescue simulation, as well as first aid in some cases. Raider Challenges may differ in events depending on the host, but the spirit of raw grit and determination remains consistent. Accommodating the challenge is a ribbon, a symbol of physical and mental strength. (Although it is the color of the Las Vegas Raiders, there is no association.)
The first group of competitors was the Bobcat Bouncers, our male PT team, who performed a 5:49 run placing 6th out of 28 teams. The events consisted of 20 cadence pushups, a litter dash, army and bear crawls, various obstacles, a boat carry, a litter carry, a tire flip, and a sprint. The Bobcat Bouncers performed well, and our other teams enjoyed cheering them on. Simultaneously, the female PT team began their cadence pushups. The events the Bobcat Bruisers competed in were nearly identical to the Bobcat Bouncers, with the boat carry being swapped out for a total of 30 burpees. The Bobcat Bruisers tallied a 10:10 run.
Shortly thereafter, our armed exhibition soloist and tandem were scheduled to compete. Cadet Technical Sergeant Nate DeLaCruz performed a routine he constructed himself. In addition, Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Naiyah Reese as well as Cadet Technical Sergeant Bret Kure competed together as a tandem to their own routine. The cadets demonstrated hard work and dedication to their craft and watching their performances made our unit very proud! Congratulations to our soloists, you worked very hard, delighting and inspiring many others.
The final event of the day was our Bobcat Brainiacs, the academic team. The team was composed of some of our most intelligent cadets, who placed 3rd out of 18, with the best time of course! Academics in drill competitions are composed of a test and are separate from JLAB and the academic bowl. While the Bobcat Brainiacs were taking the test, the other cadets toured the hosting units building.
The drill competition was packed with fun, and the first our unit competed in for this academic school year. As it was the first, it was also the very first time competing for many Cadets. Cadet Airman First Class Joana Ezepue had to say: “My first competition was stressful and exhilarating, but I liked how supportive everyone was; before and after competition. I really thought my heart was going to bust out of my chest” as for the events overall, Cadet First Lieutenant Alyssa Roberts had to say “It was really fun and I’m proud of everyone for doing their best!” I really enjoyed this competition, and it is one of my favorites thus far. Congratulations to my fellow competitors, we worked really hard, and we’ve built a foundation for more drill competitions to come!
by C/TSgt Arabella Morales
pancake breakfast
november 16th, 2023
On November 16, 2023 our unit and student council hosted a pancake breakfast at the Main Campus in Powell Hall. Many teachers, staff, and other faculty members went there to eat and conversate with one another. Many of the teachers and staff had said good things. Johanna Nunez said, “I like that you guys make this, so we can enjoy each other's company. The atmosphere was great.” Crystal King, an Assistant Principal, said, “Thank you so much for the pancake breakfast! It was delicious! compliments to the chefs for making such a good breakfast.”
The Pancake Breakfast food was prepared by our very own senior staff, who gathered early in the morning to ensure all in attendance were fed. The pancake breakfast was a success and is a highlight to our school’s teachers, staff, and faculty members in the morning. The Pancake Breakfast serves as an appreciation event and is just one of the ways our cadets show appreciation for our school!
by C/TSgt Emma Patterson
The Pancake Breakfast food was prepared by our very own senior staff, who gathered early in the morning to ensure all in attendance were fed. The pancake breakfast was a success and is a highlight to our school’s teachers, staff, and faculty members in the morning. The Pancake Breakfast serves as an appreciation event and is just one of the ways our cadets show appreciation for our school!
by C/TSgt Emma Patterson
Veterans day color guards
november 10th, 2023
In celebration of Veterans Day, organizations, schools, assisted living facilities, and other associations hosted ceremonies for veterans of the local area. To help with the festivities, color guards are often utilized, which is where our unit comes in. Since the Civil War, color guards have represented pride, diligence, and honor. Color guards are composed of four or more cadets, depending on the situation of course. The variety our corps used for Veterans Day included presenting, posting, and retiring the colors along with raising the colors on flag poles. For cadet participants, a ribbon may be earned for every five color guards, opting as a motivation. In addition, color guards may be done competitively for drill season. I personally love doing color guards as I get the opportunity to showcase my dedication and commitment to our colors.
The day before Veterans Day, our corps got to participate in a handful of color guards around our community, and I was on three. One of the earliest color guards of the morning was the Veteran Breakfast event hosted in unison by the Student Council and our Unit. The event took place in our own Powell Hall, and a select few of the choir kids came together to sing the Armed Forces Medley. The event was narrated by Cadet Col Alexander Bordner and the color guard was commanded by Cadet 1st Lt Joangel DeLaCruz. It was cadet DeLaCruz’s first time commanding a color guard, and he was determined to have an excellent color guard. Through his leadership the color guard worked together to determine areas of opportunity for the future. All the while other color guards were being conducted as well, such as the Glenn Middle School and Santa Rita color guards. One of which was televised with Congressmen Pfluger and State Representative Darby in attendance! The farthest color guard was in Ballinger and consisted of 10 cadets in total. Cadet TSgt Moore was the cadet who represented the Air Force flag, and she said “it was really fun! Just seeing everyone fill into the auditorium, I felt so much patriotism and seeing all the airmen in the room really made me realize I was a part of something bigger than myself, I felt so happy! Like I really wanted to burst out and join the vocal ensemble!” As someone who’s done a few color guards, I really agree with what cadet Moore said, doing color guards doesn't feel like you’re doing it for a ribbon, you feel like you’re doing it for the community.
The last color guards of the day were the ones I was a part of, and our destinations were Lone Star Middle School and Village East Retirement Community. The first one we went to was Village East, where our names were announced, and we presented the colors. This color guard was a true test of barring as well as upper body strength; but it was truly rewarding for each one of us. The residents of Village East were very grateful to have us in attendance and we were delighted to be there as well. After a lunch break, our next color guard was to be at Lone Star Middle School during an assembly. The Lone Star Middle School color guard went off without a hitch. Both color guards were commanded by Cadet TSgt Darby, who did an excellent job and truly demonstrated all three core values and ensured both color guards ran smoothly. As for the quality of the color guards, female color guard commander Cadet 1st Lt Guevara had to say: “I had lots of fun getting to work with everyone and to make sure our veterans felt appreciated for their service. After all the stress of getting to see our practice and effort appreciated really had me in tears of joy.”
All the color guards ran smoothly and truly represented honor and pride. Hats off to all the commanders, the cadets who participated, and the cadets who learned color guard for our veterans. You all did outstanding and deserve so much recognition. And for our veterans, thank you for your service for our country and I sincerely hope our color guards made you feel appreciated as you should be.
by C/TSgt Arabella Morales
The day before Veterans Day, our corps got to participate in a handful of color guards around our community, and I was on three. One of the earliest color guards of the morning was the Veteran Breakfast event hosted in unison by the Student Council and our Unit. The event took place in our own Powell Hall, and a select few of the choir kids came together to sing the Armed Forces Medley. The event was narrated by Cadet Col Alexander Bordner and the color guard was commanded by Cadet 1st Lt Joangel DeLaCruz. It was cadet DeLaCruz’s first time commanding a color guard, and he was determined to have an excellent color guard. Through his leadership the color guard worked together to determine areas of opportunity for the future. All the while other color guards were being conducted as well, such as the Glenn Middle School and Santa Rita color guards. One of which was televised with Congressmen Pfluger and State Representative Darby in attendance! The farthest color guard was in Ballinger and consisted of 10 cadets in total. Cadet TSgt Moore was the cadet who represented the Air Force flag, and she said “it was really fun! Just seeing everyone fill into the auditorium, I felt so much patriotism and seeing all the airmen in the room really made me realize I was a part of something bigger than myself, I felt so happy! Like I really wanted to burst out and join the vocal ensemble!” As someone who’s done a few color guards, I really agree with what cadet Moore said, doing color guards doesn't feel like you’re doing it for a ribbon, you feel like you’re doing it for the community.
The last color guards of the day were the ones I was a part of, and our destinations were Lone Star Middle School and Village East Retirement Community. The first one we went to was Village East, where our names were announced, and we presented the colors. This color guard was a true test of barring as well as upper body strength; but it was truly rewarding for each one of us. The residents of Village East were very grateful to have us in attendance and we were delighted to be there as well. After a lunch break, our next color guard was to be at Lone Star Middle School during an assembly. The Lone Star Middle School color guard went off without a hitch. Both color guards were commanded by Cadet TSgt Darby, who did an excellent job and truly demonstrated all three core values and ensured both color guards ran smoothly. As for the quality of the color guards, female color guard commander Cadet 1st Lt Guevara had to say: “I had lots of fun getting to work with everyone and to make sure our veterans felt appreciated for their service. After all the stress of getting to see our practice and effort appreciated really had me in tears of joy.”
All the color guards ran smoothly and truly represented honor and pride. Hats off to all the commanders, the cadets who participated, and the cadets who learned color guard for our veterans. You all did outstanding and deserve so much recognition. And for our veterans, thank you for your service for our country and I sincerely hope our color guards made you feel appreciated as you should be.
by C/TSgt Arabella Morales
5th Annual drill meet
october 28th, 2023
San Angelo Central Air Force Junior ROTC hosted their 5th Annual Drill Meet on October 28th, 2023. Units from West Texas and additional surrounding regions were in attendance, counting for a total of 12 schools. The Corps had assistance from Angelo State University Air Force ROTC Det 847 as well as active-duty airmen who served as judges for the events. The events included Color Guard, Armed, Sabers, First Years, Inspection, Quadcopters, PT, and Unarmed.
Drill teams and by extension drill meets are one of the foundations of activities within the Corps, and often one of the funniest. Drill teams allow for important skill sets to be built upon, including diligence, practice, dedication, and commitment. Thousands of cadets around the country practice fiercely to place competitively and bring home trophies to their units. I spoke to Cadet Third Class Davila, a TX-936 alumni now a cadet of Det 847. He “hopes the JROTC drill teams focus more on the process than achieving perfection and placement trophies. Furthermore, I want these teams to utilize their experience from the drill meet to build upon their expertise, further camaraderie with one another and bring that back to their home unit.” Our drill season begins in the spring, but the drill meet our unit hosts is in the fall. This allows for units to be given feedback and see where improvements can be made for next semester; in addition, our unit gets to see all the cogs and functions behind the scenes of drill meets. The first-year cadets are very excited to begin competing next semester, including C/AB Killgore, who had to say “I like being over here with unarmed and first years. I’m getting to see exactly what I’ll be doing and it’s really nice!”
The first event I checked out was PT, and to say I was impressed would be an understatement. All competitors performed diligently, showcasing endurance, determination, and commitment. As C/1stLt Roberts puts it, “Everyone has been pushing themselves to the limit, and as a PT commander I really like seeing the other teams compete because it highlights the hard work each team has done individually.” PT competitors build physical strength as well as mental strength and is one of the most rewarding teams to be a part of. PT teams across the country aim for excellence and growth and build strong camaraderie within the team. As a member myself, I recommend joining if you want to build strong friendships and improve both your physical and mental health.
My personal favorite event was quadcopters which were under the direction of C/Col Bordner. Quadcopters consists of two subdivisions including Bucket Drop and the Obstacle Course. I love seeing teams compete for quadcopters as it shows patience and dedication to excellence. TX-936 alumni Cadet Fourth Class Vega had to say “I'm glad I participated in Quadcopters while I was in the unit. It allowed me to teach the lower classmen the importance of training and hard work. I also like being able to judge quadcopters because I get the chance to use the skills I learned from quadcopters.” Although it may look easy, quadcopters are one of the hardest events for competitors as any little thing may affect placement. Getting to see competitors compete is really nice because you can see the type of team they are and the commitment and time they took for an event. The competitors showcased these qualities and did a great job!
The 5th Annual Central Drill Meet was one of the most successful thus far, and I cannot wait for more competitions to come. Every cadet worked excellently together and with other units to ensure quality hospitality, direction, communication, and excellence. Congratulations to every team who competed, you all did great, and you all deserve trophies. Congratulations to every cadet who participated in the knockout, you all demonstrated excellence in all you do. This was one of the best drill meets thus far, and a special thank you to all the judges who took time out of their busy schedules to help us. And a fond farewell to all competitors and visitors to our unit, we enjoyed having you!
by C/TSgt Arabella Morales
Drill teams and by extension drill meets are one of the foundations of activities within the Corps, and often one of the funniest. Drill teams allow for important skill sets to be built upon, including diligence, practice, dedication, and commitment. Thousands of cadets around the country practice fiercely to place competitively and bring home trophies to their units. I spoke to Cadet Third Class Davila, a TX-936 alumni now a cadet of Det 847. He “hopes the JROTC drill teams focus more on the process than achieving perfection and placement trophies. Furthermore, I want these teams to utilize their experience from the drill meet to build upon their expertise, further camaraderie with one another and bring that back to their home unit.” Our drill season begins in the spring, but the drill meet our unit hosts is in the fall. This allows for units to be given feedback and see where improvements can be made for next semester; in addition, our unit gets to see all the cogs and functions behind the scenes of drill meets. The first-year cadets are very excited to begin competing next semester, including C/AB Killgore, who had to say “I like being over here with unarmed and first years. I’m getting to see exactly what I’ll be doing and it’s really nice!”
The first event I checked out was PT, and to say I was impressed would be an understatement. All competitors performed diligently, showcasing endurance, determination, and commitment. As C/1stLt Roberts puts it, “Everyone has been pushing themselves to the limit, and as a PT commander I really like seeing the other teams compete because it highlights the hard work each team has done individually.” PT competitors build physical strength as well as mental strength and is one of the most rewarding teams to be a part of. PT teams across the country aim for excellence and growth and build strong camaraderie within the team. As a member myself, I recommend joining if you want to build strong friendships and improve both your physical and mental health.
My personal favorite event was quadcopters which were under the direction of C/Col Bordner. Quadcopters consists of two subdivisions including Bucket Drop and the Obstacle Course. I love seeing teams compete for quadcopters as it shows patience and dedication to excellence. TX-936 alumni Cadet Fourth Class Vega had to say “I'm glad I participated in Quadcopters while I was in the unit. It allowed me to teach the lower classmen the importance of training and hard work. I also like being able to judge quadcopters because I get the chance to use the skills I learned from quadcopters.” Although it may look easy, quadcopters are one of the hardest events for competitors as any little thing may affect placement. Getting to see competitors compete is really nice because you can see the type of team they are and the commitment and time they took for an event. The competitors showcased these qualities and did a great job!
The 5th Annual Central Drill Meet was one of the most successful thus far, and I cannot wait for more competitions to come. Every cadet worked excellently together and with other units to ensure quality hospitality, direction, communication, and excellence. Congratulations to every team who competed, you all did great, and you all deserve trophies. Congratulations to every cadet who participated in the knockout, you all demonstrated excellence in all you do. This was one of the best drill meets thus far, and a special thank you to all the judges who took time out of their busy schedules to help us. And a fond farewell to all competitors and visitors to our unit, we enjoyed having you!
by C/TSgt Arabella Morales
Flag etiquette at santa rita elementary
october 13th, 2023
On October 13, Air Force JROTC cadets C/CMSgt Reese, C/Maj Martinez, C/Capt Gongora, and C/Col Bordner went to Santa Rita to teach 5th graders proper flag etiquette to include how to fold the American and Texas flags, how to hoist the flags to half-staff, how to carry a folded flag, and quizzing them on random flag trivia. The kids caught onto what they were teaching very fast. It was something amazing to witness. The kids had a lot of fun folding, hoisting, carrying, and learning more about our nation and state flags.
This event happened just in time…Veterans Day was just 28 days away. Learning flag etiquette is a great way to show respect to the Veterans who have served our country and to those who are currently serving our country. Teaching the younger generation about proper flag etiquette is like carrying on a tradition.
Teaching the younger generation about flag etiquette is something amazing to do. When asked about it C/CMSgt Reese had said, “I like teaching flag etiquette to the younger kids, because of the impression we leave on them. We show them JROTC cares about keeping things up to standards.” What a great way to put it! Couldn’t have said it any better than that. The cadets who taught the flag etiquette hold those memories closely as it also leaves an impression on them too.
by C/TSgt Emma Patterson
This event happened just in time…Veterans Day was just 28 days away. Learning flag etiquette is a great way to show respect to the Veterans who have served our country and to those who are currently serving our country. Teaching the younger generation about proper flag etiquette is like carrying on a tradition.
Teaching the younger generation about flag etiquette is something amazing to do. When asked about it C/CMSgt Reese had said, “I like teaching flag etiquette to the younger kids, because of the impression we leave on them. We show them JROTC cares about keeping things up to standards.” What a great way to put it! Couldn’t have said it any better than that. The cadets who taught the flag etiquette hold those memories closely as it also leaves an impression on them too.
by C/TSgt Emma Patterson
West texas rehab dinner
october 12th, 2023
On Thursday October 12th, West Texas Rehab hosted their 31st annual dinner at the 1st Community Federal Credit Union Spur Arena. Both Central and Lake View JROTC along with Central’s Culinary Arts were invited to help serve the guests attending. The Colors were presented by Central JROTC. Color Guard Commander C/1st Lt Daniella Guevara said, “The color guard was very fun and it was something I haven't done before.” The color guard went smoothly. Those who saw it told them they did great and they were proud of the representation of the Colors.
Cadets from both JROTCs and Culinary Arts students prepared the plates and the remainder of the cadets served the guests. The cadets who were there loved it like C/TSgt Brayden Perry who said, “It was a very great bonding experience for us.” It was something most students wouldn’t have done and to those who went are grateful they helped out their community by doing a little thing. The event went smoothly with the help of all who were involved.
The cadets who participated had lots of fun and got a few more hours of community service to their name. All the cadets helped with picking up and cleaning the plates. Overall, the West Texas Rehab Dinner was a good time for all involved and I hope they will help out with more events like this one in the future.
by C/TSgt Alejandro Plasencia
Cadets from both JROTCs and Culinary Arts students prepared the plates and the remainder of the cadets served the guests. The cadets who were there loved it like C/TSgt Brayden Perry who said, “It was a very great bonding experience for us.” It was something most students wouldn’t have done and to those who went are grateful they helped out their community by doing a little thing. The event went smoothly with the help of all who were involved.
The cadets who participated had lots of fun and got a few more hours of community service to their name. All the cadets helped with picking up and cleaning the plates. Overall, the West Texas Rehab Dinner was a good time for all involved and I hope they will help out with more events like this one in the future.
by C/TSgt Alejandro Plasencia
Mathis field and angelo state university visit
october 4th, 2023
On October 4th, Goodfellow Air Force Base (17th TRW) and AFROTC Det 847 (Angelo State University) teamed up with the Air Force Global Strike organization to provide the community's youth with an educational field day! The unit also was provided with a tour of ASU as well as information on college majors and the campus.
The cadets were checked out from first period to lunch and transported to San Angelo’s airport, Mathis Field. Plenty of aircraft was on display for cadets to learn about as well as tour. Pilots from around the country were in attendance to educate and guide the cadets interested in aviation. My personal favorite plane was a T1-J Airhawk painted like a P-51 Mustang. The T1-J resembled a Red Tail and paid homage to the Tuskegee Airmen. The Tuskegee Airmen was an all-black flight squadron who fought fearlessly during the Second World War. The pilots were very passionate to tell us all about the plane and the historic homage.
While our unit was busy learning about planes, our very own Deputy Group Commander was quite busy herself! After diligently working throughout the summer, C/Lt Col Lindsay Leyba achieved her private pilot license! From our corps, we’re very happy for you and congratulations! With C/Lt Col Leyba successfully earning her private pilot license thanks to the flight academy, cadets such as C/CMSgt Reese felt very inspired! “It's exciting to see all the airplanes; it’s really motivating to try harder for the flight academy! It’s nice to see underclassmen experiencing their first field trip too!”
After an aviation-filled morning, the unit headed over to Angelo State University. The university offered lunch as well as a tour and information about majors and programs offered. My group got to experience a handful of booths that showcased programs, majors, and resources. Accompanied by the tour, the visit was very beneficial to students looking into the university for further education. Our unit was also provided with goods such as Chapstick, pamphlets, aviators, and stickers.
While the Air Force Global Strike visit was very educational, it was also a blast! Each and every cadet spoke with enthusiasm and excitement. As C/1st Lt Roberts puts it, “I was really dreading missing school for this trip because I was worried I’d get behind, but this trip was totally worth it! I’m going into the Army National Reserve following graduation, but I plan on attending college thereafter. ASU is definitely on my list!” Lots of cadets were very happy with the aviation aspect of the visit. People such as me who are aiming for the flight academy were very happy that we got to speak with pilots first hand to learn about specific models and certain mechanics. This trip was the very first for a handful of the first years, and when I spoke to them they all were excited for the future! “It was pretty awesome! The trip was good for college stuff, ASU’s definitely on my list!” quoted C/Amn Montoya. “I’m really glad I got to see ASU! I plan on getting a scholarship and the booths provided plenty of information! I really like the campus as well, and I think it’s a good place! I can only imagine how cool some of the other field trips will be!” said C/AB Rodriguez. The Air Force Global Strike visit was amazing, and I can’t wait for more field trips!
by C/TSgt Arabella Morales
The cadets were checked out from first period to lunch and transported to San Angelo’s airport, Mathis Field. Plenty of aircraft was on display for cadets to learn about as well as tour. Pilots from around the country were in attendance to educate and guide the cadets interested in aviation. My personal favorite plane was a T1-J Airhawk painted like a P-51 Mustang. The T1-J resembled a Red Tail and paid homage to the Tuskegee Airmen. The Tuskegee Airmen was an all-black flight squadron who fought fearlessly during the Second World War. The pilots were very passionate to tell us all about the plane and the historic homage.
While our unit was busy learning about planes, our very own Deputy Group Commander was quite busy herself! After diligently working throughout the summer, C/Lt Col Lindsay Leyba achieved her private pilot license! From our corps, we’re very happy for you and congratulations! With C/Lt Col Leyba successfully earning her private pilot license thanks to the flight academy, cadets such as C/CMSgt Reese felt very inspired! “It's exciting to see all the airplanes; it’s really motivating to try harder for the flight academy! It’s nice to see underclassmen experiencing their first field trip too!”
After an aviation-filled morning, the unit headed over to Angelo State University. The university offered lunch as well as a tour and information about majors and programs offered. My group got to experience a handful of booths that showcased programs, majors, and resources. Accompanied by the tour, the visit was very beneficial to students looking into the university for further education. Our unit was also provided with goods such as Chapstick, pamphlets, aviators, and stickers.
While the Air Force Global Strike visit was very educational, it was also a blast! Each and every cadet spoke with enthusiasm and excitement. As C/1st Lt Roberts puts it, “I was really dreading missing school for this trip because I was worried I’d get behind, but this trip was totally worth it! I’m going into the Army National Reserve following graduation, but I plan on attending college thereafter. ASU is definitely on my list!” Lots of cadets were very happy with the aviation aspect of the visit. People such as me who are aiming for the flight academy were very happy that we got to speak with pilots first hand to learn about specific models and certain mechanics. This trip was the very first for a handful of the first years, and when I spoke to them they all were excited for the future! “It was pretty awesome! The trip was good for college stuff, ASU’s definitely on my list!” quoted C/Amn Montoya. “I’m really glad I got to see ASU! I plan on getting a scholarship and the booths provided plenty of information! I really like the campus as well, and I think it’s a good place! I can only imagine how cool some of the other field trips will be!” said C/AB Rodriguez. The Air Force Global Strike visit was amazing, and I can’t wait for more field trips!
by C/TSgt Arabella Morales
TX-936 Cadet Conducts Flyover During the Homecoming Game
September 8th, 2023
On September 8, 2023, Cadet Colonel Alexander Bordner conducted a flyover for San Angelo Central’s homecoming game against Abilene Cooper. Cadet Bordner is the TX-936 Group Commander at Central High School. A flyover is when an aircraft flies at a lower altitude than normal. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, an aircraft must not descend below an altitude of 500 feet over congested or populated areas – which included the homecoming game at the San Angelo Stadium full of thousands.
Cadet Bordner flew over the stadium for the National Anthem prior to the beginning of the game. He worked with Skyline Aviation to obtain a DA-20 with tail number 91AS. Senior Aerospace Instructor Major Christopher Carney was also able to assess the skills of his unit’s group commander who had the opportunity to attend the AFJROTC Flight Academy over the summer and obtain his Private Pilot’s Certification (PPC).
The AFJROTC Flight Academy is a program that awards scholarships to AFJROTC, AFROTC, and United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) cadets. It is an 8-week rigorous and expedited course designed for students to complete both their flight and ground training to earn their PPC. This year, 301 cadets were awarded the scholarship, with 239 receiving their PPC. For our TX-936 unit, three cadets were awarded this scholarship: Alexander Bordner, Heidi Miller, and me.
Cadet Heidi Miller attended the program at East Carolina University (ECU) in Greenville, NC. The university paired with D2 Flight Academy located in New Bern, NC. 2023 was the first year ECU hosted a group of cadets for the flight academy program and partnered with the D2 Flight Academy. There were 12 cadets who attended this program, one from the USAFA and another from Texas A&M. She graduated the program with her solo and written exam done (the harder parts out of the way) and will be completing her training at Skyline Aviation in San Angelo, TX.
Both Cadet Bordner and I had the privilege to attend the program at the University of West Florida in Pensacola, FL, with 22 other cadets, 2 being from the USAFA, 2 from AFROTC and the rest from high school like us. Our training consisted of studying for ground school to take the Airman Knowledge Test, which is the written exam needed to pass with a 70% or better, and then the flight training done at AMS Flight School in Milton, FL. We trained in the Cessna Skyhawk 172 for the duration of our training. While our training had some “ups and downs” due to maintenance and weather, I came close to obtaining my certification with the exam passed and soloed and Bordner earned his PPC in addition to being awarded the ACE awarded for being the Outstanding Cadet at this program. The AFJROTC Flight Academy Program is a fulfilling and rewarding program. It gives opportunities to students who have an interest in aviation in a field that has a high entry cost.
by C/Lt Col Lindsay Leyba
Cadet Bordner flew over the stadium for the National Anthem prior to the beginning of the game. He worked with Skyline Aviation to obtain a DA-20 with tail number 91AS. Senior Aerospace Instructor Major Christopher Carney was also able to assess the skills of his unit’s group commander who had the opportunity to attend the AFJROTC Flight Academy over the summer and obtain his Private Pilot’s Certification (PPC).
The AFJROTC Flight Academy is a program that awards scholarships to AFJROTC, AFROTC, and United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) cadets. It is an 8-week rigorous and expedited course designed for students to complete both their flight and ground training to earn their PPC. This year, 301 cadets were awarded the scholarship, with 239 receiving their PPC. For our TX-936 unit, three cadets were awarded this scholarship: Alexander Bordner, Heidi Miller, and me.
Cadet Heidi Miller attended the program at East Carolina University (ECU) in Greenville, NC. The university paired with D2 Flight Academy located in New Bern, NC. 2023 was the first year ECU hosted a group of cadets for the flight academy program and partnered with the D2 Flight Academy. There were 12 cadets who attended this program, one from the USAFA and another from Texas A&M. She graduated the program with her solo and written exam done (the harder parts out of the way) and will be completing her training at Skyline Aviation in San Angelo, TX.
Both Cadet Bordner and I had the privilege to attend the program at the University of West Florida in Pensacola, FL, with 22 other cadets, 2 being from the USAFA, 2 from AFROTC and the rest from high school like us. Our training consisted of studying for ground school to take the Airman Knowledge Test, which is the written exam needed to pass with a 70% or better, and then the flight training done at AMS Flight School in Milton, FL. We trained in the Cessna Skyhawk 172 for the duration of our training. While our training had some “ups and downs” due to maintenance and weather, I came close to obtaining my certification with the exam passed and soloed and Bordner earned his PPC in addition to being awarded the ACE awarded for being the Outstanding Cadet at this program. The AFJROTC Flight Academy Program is a fulfilling and rewarding program. It gives opportunities to students who have an interest in aviation in a field that has a high entry cost.
by C/Lt Col Lindsay Leyba
PALO DURO CANYON & TEXAS PANHANDLE WAR MEMORIAL TRIP
September 1ST-3RD, 2023
We went on a hiking trip to the Palo Duro Canyon from September 1st to the 3rd. The hike covered fourteen miles for those who completed it. The ones who completed it went on four trails. The other cadets were able to hike two trails. All the trails were scenic and one trail took us to the Lighthouse rock formation. The canyon was a beautiful place and all of the cadets loved the scenery.
On the first day 6.2 miles were hiked by 14 of the 50+ cadets who went, the hike was a peaceful and enjoyable experience albeit very hot. On the second day we split into two groups. One went with Major Carney to see the Lighthouse and the other group went with Chief Prince on a shorter hike. Both groups had lots of fun during the hike. After the hike, we visited the Texas Panhandle War Memorial and got a tour of the memorial and got to see a lot of historic war items and mementos. Sadly, the trip had to end so on the 3rd we packed our things and went back home. The cadets who completed 14+ miles were awarded the Bataan Death March Memorial Hike ribbon, and all had a fun experience to tell their family
by C/TSgt Alejandro Plasencia
On the first day 6.2 miles were hiked by 14 of the 50+ cadets who went, the hike was a peaceful and enjoyable experience albeit very hot. On the second day we split into two groups. One went with Major Carney to see the Lighthouse and the other group went with Chief Prince on a shorter hike. Both groups had lots of fun during the hike. After the hike, we visited the Texas Panhandle War Memorial and got a tour of the memorial and got to see a lot of historic war items and mementos. Sadly, the trip had to end so on the 3rd we packed our things and went back home. The cadets who completed 14+ miles were awarded the Bataan Death March Memorial Hike ribbon, and all had a fun experience to tell their family
by C/TSgt Alejandro Plasencia