E. C. Glass High School’s JROTC unit took a first place honor this weekend at the Air Force’s 2013 National JROTC Drill Competition hosted at the University of Maryland. The school’s "Glass Guard" team competed against 25 nationally ranked schools in a strictly choreographed presentation ceremony of the U.S. and state flags.
The Glass Guard also competed in three other events finishing 12th in overall standings. According to team Commander, Cadet Will Johnston, the competition was very well prepared. "The other teams were all sharp and impressive," he said. "I think we were able to bring in more focus and attention to detail and come out on top in the color guard event."
Other competitive events included Inspection, Regulation Drill and Exhibition in which Glass Guard finished 7th, 11th and 20th places respectively. The team consists of 20 cadets, freshmen through seniors.
According to team coach Senior Master Sgt. Donald Dougherty, the Glass Guard performance was distinctive in that all team members participate in all events. "That’s not the case with bigger schools who have separate teams and cadets for each event," he said, "So, our Glass cadets can be especially proud of this breadth of expertise. They did it all, and I couldn't be more proud of these superstars."
Cadet Victor Brown is a senior on the color guard team. He cited practice and perseverance for his first place finish. "We're pushed hard," Brown said, adding, "but, it’s well worth the time and effort we're putting into this."
