DAYTONA, FLA. – The Blue Knights in the Air Force Junior ROTC or AFJROTC unit from Bob Jones High School enjoyed the sandy beach but not as much as their wins in the Daytona High School Drill Nationals.

“Our Fitness Team placed fifth in the 3K Beach Run. Marjorie Baumbach placed first for the women’s standing long-jump. Kendall Jackson placed second for the men’s standing long-jump,” CMSgt Ellis Q. Clark said.

After serving in the U.S. Air Force, Clark works as Aerospace Science Instructor with Bob Jones AFJROTC Unit.

“Our Drill Team, commanded by Cadet Lucy Halter, placed third in Inspection. Flight Regulation, commanded by Cadet Shaniya Lanier, placed third. The Exhibition Routine, commanded by Cadet Jackson Ford, placed third,” Clark said.

Bob Jones Honor Guard, commanded by Cadet Anthony Pena, again won first place. The Blue Knights won runner-up of the Overall Unarmed Division. Shaniya Lanier won the prestigious Jean Weil College Scholarship.

“This event is massive, with Fitness activities taking place on the beach initially, while the Drill Team underwent inspection and the Regulation Flight performed its routine,” Clark said. “On the second day, the drill team performed the Exhibition Routine and our Color Guard performed its routine.”

“The Fitness Award Ceremony took place on Friday night . . . with lots of awards. On Saturday, the Drill Competition awards were presented. The stage was set, and there were roughly 65 schools in attendance that comprised the 100 teams that competed in drill over the two days,” Clark said.

Clark described the atmosphere as “electric” as five levels of winners from each division of every routine were announced. “I was ecstatic to hear our team’s name, ‘The Blue Knights from Bob Jones,’ called for every event . . . and especially hearing them announce our Color Guard as Champions again for the second year running,” Clark said.

“Moreover, I was extremely pleased that we earned Division Runner-Up because my cadets put in some very hard work attending practices at ‘o-dark o’clock,’ while the rest of Madison is still stirring in bed and reaching for snooze buttons,” Clark said.

Clark expressed gratitude to the parents who either bring their children or allow their children to attend practice that early. “We can now see the results of their child’s hard work,” he said.

“Finally, I give a special shout-out to Maj. Melissa Lacey and Mrs. James for providing their support wherever and whenever needed,” Clark said.