MADISON – American Legion, Post 229 in Madison honored two cadets in Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps or JROTC at James Clemens High School.

James Clemens JROTC conducted its annual Awards Day Ceremony on April 20 with Madison Mayor Paul Finley visiting as guest speaker. Tom McKinney, who serves as Post 229’s Americanism Chairperson, and Post 299 Commander Larry Vannoy presented American Legion awards to Samuel Sepulveda and Rebecca King.

Cadet Captain Samuel Sepulveda received the American Legion Military Excellence Award. The recipient of this honor has demonstrated outstanding cadet performance; proven qualities of dependability and good character; adhered to military discipline; shown leadership ability; and mastered a fundamental and patriotic understanding of the JROTC training.

Cadet Corporal Rebecca King earned the American Legion Scholastic Excellence Award. The student who earns this distinction has compiled an impressive record of academic performance, achieved a scholastic grade of ‘A’ in JROTC or both of these milestones.

Recipients of the Scholastic Excellence Award rank in the upper 10 percent of the JROTC academic class, demonstrate outstanding qualities in military leadership and actively participate in constructive student activities, such as student organizations or sports.

Sepulveda and King received a medal, ribbon and certificate.

“The American Legion is a strong supporter of JROTC and ROTC programs across the United States,” Vannoy said. “The purpose of the American Legion youth award programs is to develop America’s future leaders by motivating and encouraging young people. The awards also recognize exceptional performance in the areas of JROTC, citizenship, Americanism, scholarship, music, athleticism and essay endeavors.”

At James Clemens, Senior JROTC instructor Rezell Linen and Instructor Samuel D. McCray selected the two deserving cadets, based on their exemplary work.

For more information about American Legion family programs, contact Post Adjutant Stacey Harring with Post 229 by calling 256-258-8534; mailing P.O. Box 194, Madison, AL 35758; emailing LVannoy06@gmail.com; or visiting americanlegionpost229.org or Facebook/American Legion Post 229.