Veterans Memorial High School (Patriot Battalion) JROTC Pass in Review and Honor Unit Distinction ‘Gold Star’ Ceremony

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Submitted by: LTC (R) John L Baker
Photo by: Mr. Chad Shugart

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – APRIL 6th, 2023.  This year Veterans Memorial High School (VMHS) Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) was visited by the 5^th Brigade JROTC, Cadet Command on 6 March 2023.  The entire Patriot Battalion participated in this event.  This was the school’s first JROTC Program Accreditation inspection (JPA).  Both cadre, Sergeant First Class (Retired) Karen Hudson, Army Instructor, and Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) John Baker, Senior Army Instructor were proud of their student’s commitment to completing this inspection as a team.  This inspection was successful for the Patriots Battalion, earning the Honor Unit with Distinction (HUD) title.

In accordance with USACC Regulation 145-2, JROTC Program: Organization, Administration, Operations, Training, and Support Regulation dated 12 August 2022, Chapter 8, section 54 highlights that, “An Honor Unit with Distinction (HUD) has demonstrated exceptional performance in all areas of JROTC, as determined by the USACC and as designated in permanent orders. Receiving such ratings is a reflection on both the unit and the school.” 

The Patriot’s leadership spent long days in preparation with multiple briefs which prepared the Patriots for execution day.  This preparation paid off as the Patriots Battalion earned a 96.25% overall score, earning the HUD distinction award which is represented by wearing the ‘Gold Star’. This inspection allows the Patriots Battalion to celebrate by donning their HUD title for the first time which was conducted during their annual Pass In Review Ceremony.  The HUD award will be allowed to wear for three years.