WREX.com – Rockford’s News LeaderYoung Naval Sea Cadets stand proud

Young Naval Sea Cadets stand proud

By Samantha Ptashkin

ROCKFORD (WREX)- Extensive physical training and drills don't seem to phase some young Naval Sea Cadets, all honored on Saturday for their hard work. The 4th Annual Naval Inspection Ceremony honors cadets from the Major General John Borling Division of the U.S. Naval and Sea Cadet Corps.

They're 18 people who strive for excellence. Nothing can brake their concentration, not even in a moment of celebration. "I've always been interested in the military,.  My uncle's in the military, he's in the Navy," said 2nd Class Cadet Petty Officer Brock Jones.

Jones, a 16-year-old from Loves Park, is this year's Cadet of the Year. He was chosen because of his outstanding performance as a leader to fellow cadets. "It feels great. I was really surprised. Nobody knew who was going to get it, so just the feeling of them calling your name, to go up and get the award was great," Broch said.

Jones shook hands with Major General John Borling, a highly decorated Air Force officer whose military career spanned almost 40 years. "I commend these young people for having the foresight to do something that's not only important to the community, but really important in terms of their own growth," Borling said.

The cadets meet every two weeks all year long for classroom training, drills, and inspections. They also take part in community service and leadership activities. "Before I joined the program, I wasn't very good at talking in front of groups and crowds, but you learn a lot of leadership, a lot of responsibility," Jones said.

The cadets carry lessons with them each day, so they can stand proud of themselves and their country. "Every drill day is how you perform," Jones said.

The cadets range in age from 10 to 18. They come from area towns and some even come from Wisconsin.