MADISON – Madison American Legion, Post 229 presented honors to cadets in the Army Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps or JROTC Battalion during the annual Awards Day at Sparkman High School on Jan. 31.

During this ceremony, Commander Carlos Woods and 1st Adjutant Larry Vannoy with Madison Post 229 presented two American Legion awards to two cadets. Vannoy also serves as 1st Vice Commander.

Cadet 1st Lt. Haley A. Hahn received an award for Military Excellence. Cadet Maj. Nathan D. Gibbons earned the award for Scholastic Excellence. Sparkman’s senior JROTC instructor selected Hahn and Gibbons as award recipients.

The cadet who receives the Military Excellence Award has exhibited outstanding performance, qualities of dependability and good character, adherence to military discipline and leadership ability. In addition, the student must have a fundamental and patriotic understanding of JROTC training.

The scholastic Excellence Award represents superior academic performance, achievement of a scholastic ‘A’ in JROTC or both of these honors. Recipients 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 clubs or sports.

Each award includes a medal, ribbon and certificate.

The American Legion is a strong supporter of JROTC and ROTC programs across the United States. The purpose of American Legion’s youth award programs is to develop the country’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.

American Legion, Post 229 currently meets monthly on the second Thursday at 7 p.m. in Lunar Lodge 918, F&AM of Alabama at 740 Eastview Drive in Madison.

For more information, contact Vannoy at P.O. Box 194, Madison, AL 35758, call 256-258-8534, email Admin@AmericanLegionPost229.org or visit americanlegionpost229.org.