On March 1, 2024, West Johnston Junior Reserve Officer Corps (JROTC) had the honor to host their first Mil Ball at the Hilton Hotel since 2019. The ball consisted of a ceremony, dinner, and dance. They had amazing guest speakers such as Dr. Tobias Hocutt.
This ball was definitely not like others. They decided it was best to combine with Corinth Holders and Cleveland High Schools to make one big event.
“It was a new location to have the ball but the planning and event overall went well, comparing this to the last ball we had in 2019 I think this format is a great idea for upcoming years. ” said First Sergeant Cornell Harris, one of the West Johnston JROTC instructors.
Prior to the event the instructors made sure to give classes on etiquette. The male cadets were taught courtesies such as pulling out seats for their dates. They were also taught about dinner conversations.
Overall, it served the cadets positively. The cadets also got to learn how to plan such a large event. The senior and junior classes, as well as the staff, made sure they put hard work and dedication into everything they planned.
Leaving right after school to go to taste-testings for the menu while still keeping in mind people’s allergies and diet. While making sure to add a toast for all those who worked hard and all those who attended. Also, they made slideshow presentations of all the pictures they’ve taken this year to show a recap of the year to all the guests.
Making sure to remember those who are no longer with us are ensured to have a Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW MIA) ceremony and table.
Cadet Staff Sergeant Joseph Aparicio, a member of the POW MIA team said, “It was an honor to be part of the team. My role was to light the candle for the table. The significance is more than what it sounds.”
The powerful symbol is to represent America’s concern to find the fates of those who are still prisoners, missing, or have passed away. The flag is a reminder for us to never forget those who have given their lives for us and their families who never get to see them again.
Cadet Major Wyatt Bollten, Cadet Captain Farrell Jones, Cadet Captain Juan Carlos Morales, and Cadet Staff Sergeant Joseph Aparicio had the honor of putting together the POW MIA table for the ceremony.
The rose and vase were first, representing loved ones and those missing with a ribbon tied around, signifying hope they’ll return home. After that, a lemon and salt to symbolize their bitter fate and
the tears of their families, respectively.
Third came the Bible, embodying faith and America’s founding as one nation under God. Lastly, the candle and an upside down wine glass to say they’re not there to drink a toast with us.
Battalion Commander Senior Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Justin Spencer told us, “We never got to have a Mil Ball due to COVID-19, and although I’m sad to go, I’m extremely grateful to have experienced it at least once.”
He enjoyed planning the event and can’t wait to see how the program unfolds over the years. He said his favorite part was to dance the night away with his friends.
They made sure to have a DJ and photobooth section where everyone could go take formal pictures and have them printed on the spot. It wasn’t like any event they’d ever had before, but they look forward to having it every year.
