On Thursday, December 6, 2018, the Naval JROTC cadets of the Oak Ridge High School’s Wildcat Company formed up for their first official Annual Military Inspection ceremony. Led by senior and Cadet Company Commanding Officer, Rhiannon Lucas, the cadets took formation in the Wildcat Arena for Personnel Inspection by Chief Warrant Officer Johnston, the Inspecting Officer for the ceremony. Twenty one cadets scored “Outstanding” on the personnel inspection and were presented an award for Exemplary Personal Appearance during the ceremony.
Following the personnel inspection, the cadets then formed up to begin the ceremony. Some of the Distinguished Guests who attended the ceremony were TN State Rep. John Ragan, Dr. Bruce Borchers, several school board and city council members, Mrs. Terry Frank, Mr. Gene Sievers of CNS Y-12, Mrs. Jessica Steed of Oak Ridge Public Education Foundation and Mr. Martin McDonald.
Those in attendance were treated to a demonstration by the Unarmed Drill team, led by Cadet Senior Chief Lillie Mullins and the Armed Drill team, led by Cadet Lieutenant Alex Coones. During the ceremony, each of the five platoons of cadets and the color guard did a “Pass in Review” saluting the Inspecting Officer and distinguished guests.
Something very special about our ceremony was recognizing Elizabeth O’Toole as the Cadet of the Month for November and promoting Cadet Beatrice Shea to Cadet Petty Officer Second Class. Cadet Shea was selected above her peers by Mr. McDonald for her exemplary appearance while in uniform, exceptional performance of her duties in ROTC and all of her other classes.
All cadets did a phenomenal job and looked amazing. Furthermore, the ceremony was made sweeter with the beautiful performance of the Oak Ridge High School Chorus Ensemble, which performed the National Anthem and sang a “Tribute to the Armed Forces.” “Ms. Ragan does an awesome job with the chorus department and it was our privilege to have them come and be a part of our monumental event”, said Chief Ryan Nicholls. The Wildcat Company wishes to thank everyone who attended and supports the program.
