Charles City JROTC cadets participate in annual summer camp

Charles City cadets join in with others at the "Leadership Reaction Course" to solve problems as quickly as possible.

Three cadets from Charles City High School’s JROTC “Panther” battalion participated in a regional Junior Cadet Leadership Challenge (JCLC) June 27-July 2 summer camp at Fort A.P. Hill.

Cadets Brandon Adkins, Zachary Barneycastle, and M. Chad Montgomery were among 500 cadets from 46 high schools in four states that attended the camp. Cadets worked on skills that included team work, leadership, and building respect from cadets with different backgrounds and cultures.

With the instruction of SFC Steward Greene and LTC Vernon Peter, Charles City cadets participated in a variety of events. Repelling from a 45-foot tower, maneuvering through an obstacle course, first aid training, and leadership reaction courses were among some of the activities.

Campers began their day at 6 a.m. and ended it at 9 p.m. Cadets concluded activities with precision drills and athletic competitions.

The annual JROTC summer program gives high school students an opportunity to develop patriotism, practice good citizenship, gain self-confidence, and learn leadership skills.