Fourteen Sheridan JROTC cadets joined 136 others from across the state for the annual JROTC Cadet Leadership Challenge at Camp Robinson Maneuver Training Center June 26-30. The annual training camp provides cadets the opportunity to show growth in self-confidence and leadership abilities while also learning team-building skills.
The 14 Sheridan cadets who attended were: Kennedi Bamford, Anthony Bates, Toni Egerdahl, Aubre Frank, Randall Gaddy, Dakota Harp, Breana Holder, Evan Kisel, Christian McDonald, Jenna Page, Emilea Silmon, Zachary Tribble, Dalton Underwood and Daniel Vega.
Cadets in leadership positions are evaluated on their leadership abilities as they learn from the experience. Cadet Anthony Bates of Sheridan earned the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Outstanding Leadership Award. He was also named “Top Male Cadet” at the JCLC event. Cadet Holder placed first in the female push-ups event, and Cadet Frank placed third in the female mile run.
JCLC is a week-long leadership training experience in a pseudo-military environment. Cadets negotiate the air assault obstacle course, rappel off the 40-foot tower, complete a cadet challenge physical fitness test, and learn both water and land survival techniques. Additionally, cadets are organized in companies, platoons and squads and given leadership positions that rotate daily.
To enhance the military environment, cadets sleep in military barracks, eat in a military style dining facility, and wear military uniforms while in training. This year’s training was even more challenging with the extreme temperatures, according to Sergeant Major (Retired) Darryl Dean, the JCLC Command Sergeant Major from Sheridan High School.
“It was hot, but we know how to train safely in the heat,” said SGM Dean. “This is just a great experience for the kids, and it’s worth all the hard work.”
In addition to the Army JROTC Instructors, the JCLC is supported by officers and soldiers from Arkansas Army National Guard, U.S. Army active and reserve recruiters, school nurses, chaperones and bus drivers. Next year’s JCLC event is scheduled for June 3-8, 2024 at Camp Robinson.