Hanahan High School Army JROTC Awards Ceremony & Military Ball

Saturday, 30 April 1800

Presenter: LCDR Bill Mehard

 I attended the award ceremony Saturday evening at the Hanahan High School for the Hawk Battalion of the Army JROTC program.  The program was billed as the Army Junior ROTC Twenty-Third Annual Military Ball. 

This year the cafeteria was jam packed. Unlike last year, it was almost a capacity crowd. At least twice as many as previous years.  There was a mixture of gowns, civilian dress and uniforms...(hence), a Ball!!!  I made presentation to two recipients:

Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Christopher B. Hatchell (MOAA Medal and Certificate) and

Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Lilly K. Hodges (Outstanding Cadet Award- Certificate and $50.)

Also at our guest table were other presenters:  David Rentz- Sons of Confederate Veterans;  Edd Richburg-Sons of American Revolution; Otto Kaske-Scottish Rite and Grand Lodge and Sojourners; and Cecil Rash-American Legion Goose Creek.

The program started on time and was guided by LTC Charles E. Cross USA, Ret and SFC W. Watson USA, Ret.  Passing of the flag to the new incoming troop was first on the agenda.  The highlight of the event, I think, was the passing out to each of the seniors, ten in all, a bright new shiny silver dollar.  The silver dollar represents many American values and symbols. These values and symbols of the silver dollar were explained to the Cadets by LTC Cross.

I did not stay for the dining and dancing.  It was grand event that I enjoyed.

Most of the departing seniors will join the U.S. Army, go to work in civilian jobs, go on to the Citadel or other ventures.  They were an impressive group of young people.

Bill Mehard, Lcdr, USN, Ret