Writer – Jimmy E. Hall
Photographer – COL Jimmy E. Hall, Coordinator, JROTC and Military Programs/Director Army Instructions (DAI)
On April 17, 2025, Cadet Elina Rivera-Pena, a junior at Western High School, made history in Florida as she enlisted in the Florida Army National Guard as an 11B, Infantryman. This significant achievement marks her as a trailblazer within the state’s military community. Cadet Rivera-Pena is set to ship out to Basic Combat Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, on May 27, 2025, where she will begin the first phase of her Split Option Training.
Next school year, Cadet Rivera-Pena will serve on the Wildcat Battalion Staff or as the Operations and Training Staff Sergeant Major. Following her graduation in June 2026, she will complete her Advanced Initial Training (AIT) for 11B, Infantryman. Upon her return, she plans to attend the Broward Fire Academy to become a Firefighter/EMT. Her Senior Army Instructor, Lieutenant Colonel Wendell Johnson stated that “Cadet Elina Rivera is my best Company Executive Officer! Her physical strength, competitive nature, and mental toughest helped will the smallest company in the battalion to earning the 2025 WHS Wildcat Games Championship! One of my toughest leaders on both our Raider Team and Drill Teams, she easily ranks as one of the strongest young leaders I have observed in my more than 39 years of Army and JROTC service.”
She reflects the values of leadership and service that are fostered through the JROTC program. Cadet Rivera-Pena’s journey embodies the drive and determination promoted through JROTC and sets a powerful example for her peers and community.
Wiesbaden High School: Warrior Battalion Marksmanship team wins DODEA Europe West Conference Final
Cadet Kai Malaga shoots in the kneeling position at the DODEA Europe West Conference Marksmanship Final. (Photo by Aiden Prete) Written by Cadet Kylyn Drake This year has been one of the most successful years [...]
Garfield High School: Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
Garfield High School Army JROTC Cadets march in their local Martin Luther King Day Parade. (Photo by Raymond Eason, Army Instructor) Written by Terry Buckhannon, Army Instructor On Jan. 17, the Garfield High School Army [...]
Mercer County Technical: Army JROTC STEM Academy Makes History with First Place Finish in Inaugural Drill and Ceremony Competition
Mercer County Technical Schools Cadets march at the Central and South New Jersey LET I Drill and Ceremony Competition in Bayville, New Jersey. (Photo by Leonardo Ramos, Army Instructor) Written by Javier A. Cortéz, Senior [...]
