Bettye Davis East Achorage High School – U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan Presents Bronze Level Legion of Valor to East Anchorage High School Cadet Isabella Iparraguirre

Writer – Major Daniel R. Erskine (Retired)

Photographer – Michael Soupkup

On October 25, 2024, U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan presented the prestigious Bronze Level Legion of Valor for Achievement to Cadet Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Isabella Iparraguirre at Bettye Davis East Anchorage High School. This award is the highest distinction within the JROTC and ROTC programs, and is given to only 50-70 cadets each year out of nearly 350,000 cadets nationwide. Cadet Iparraguirre, who ranks #1 in her senior class, has excelled in academics, service, and leadership. Alongside maintaining a perfect GPA since the 6th grade, she has dedicated countless hours to community service, serves as a paid intern for her Alaska Native Tribal Corporation, and participates in Varsity Volleyball, the Varsity JROTC Traveling Drill team, and an Alaska Native dance member, the Anchorage Unangax Dancers. Known for her humility and character, Isabella has received numerous awards throughout her high school career, each of which contributed to her eligibility for this distinguished honor.

In a heartfelt show of support, Isabella’s family attended the ceremony, including her cousin, Makarius Swetzof, the current Thunderbird Battalion Commander, who expressed his pride in her achievements. The award was presented during a special ceremony held at the Annual Wacky Olympics (WACKO) Games, with 8 of the 10 JROTC programs from Anchorage and the Mat-Su area in attendance. Anchorage School District Superintendent Dr. Bryantt and East Anchorage High School’s Assistant Principal joined Senator Sullivan in presenting the award. Major Daniel R. Erskine, Senior Army Instructor of the Thunderbird Battalion, praised Isabella’s achievements, stating, “We have many amazing cadets, but this one is a clear standout amongst the very best that I expect will continue to contribute to her communities at a very high level.” The Bronze Level Legion of Valor, established in 1890, recognizes outstanding achievement in military science, academic performance, and leadership within JROTC and ROTC programs. Isabella Iparraguirre’s receipt of this award is a testament to her dedication, character, and bright future as a leader within her community.

Images All photos are were taken by Michael Soupkup

• Senator Dan Sullivan, AK, Anchorage School District Superintendent Dr. Jharrett Bryantt, and Cadet Iparraguirre
• The Senator Pinning the LOV on the Cadet
• Major Erskine addressing the area cadets with Principal Rodger Nicolls, Senator Sullivan, Dr. Bryantt, and the Awardee
• Senator Sullivan addressing the cadets
• Cadet Iparraguirre addressing the area cadets
• Family of Cadet Iparaguirre with Senator Sullivan
• Awardee, Presenters, Anchorage Matsu School Districts Joint Service Cadets