For the sixth time in seven years, Nease was named the No. 1 Navy JROTC program in Area-12 — a region that encompasses 60 schools covering North Florida and the state of Georgia.
Nease earned the title as Most Outstanding Unit during an announcement by Commander Rustie Hibbard, NJROTC Area-12 manager, in May. The award is based on the total achievement of the program, which includes academic performance, community outreach, campus leadership, overall physical fitness and competition results.
“We (seniors) came into JROTC as the No. 1 program back in 2014,” said outgoing cadet Battalion Commander Aberlyn Short. “And our goal was to leave on top. Mission accomplished.”
Over the last year, Nease has earned first place at the Ed White Drill Meet, Mandarin Drill Meet, Terry Parker Drill Meet, Area-12 Drill Championships, Middleburg Pentathlon and Lee Ultimate Challenge. In addition, seven graduating seniors received service academy appointments or ROTC Scholarships, and the group completed nearly 5,000 hours of community service.
“We’re a cadet-run unit — and these cadets like to stay active,” said Gunnery Sergeant Duane Hanson, one of the three naval science instructors.
Nease was the No. 1 program in Area-12 from 2012-2016 and finished second in 2017 to North Cobb High School near Atlanta.
“This achievement is the result of a total Nease family effort put forth by disciplined and hard-working cadets, engaged parents and a supportive school administration,” said Captain Scott LaRochelle, senior naval science instructor.
