Chadron State ROTC members honored at Military Ball

Cadet Andrew Cameron of Hooper, Neb., is a senior majoring in criminal justice. He will graduate and commission in May in the Nebraska Army National Guard as a transportation officer. He was accompanied by Cadet Megan McLean

Cadet Marina Podio of Newcastle, Wyo., is a senior majoring in criminal justice with a minor in psychology. She will graduate and commission in May and serve on active duty as a quartermaster officer. She was accompanied by her father, Andy Podio

Cadet Trevor Jacobson of Gunnison, Colo., is a senior majoring in business administration. He will graduate and commission in May in the Nebraska Army National Guard as a chemical officer. 

Cadet Jonathan Lordino of Chadron is a senior majoring in criminal justice. He will graduate in May and upon completion of Warrior Forge, he will serve in the Nebraska National Guard as a transportation officer.

Cadet Amanda Tallman of Chadron is a senior majoring in interdisciplinary studies. She will graduate and commission in December in the Army Reserves. She was accompanied by her husband, Phillip Tallman.

Mount Rushmore Battalion Professor of Military Science Lt. Col. Lynna Speier, said, “The performance and professionalism of our new lieutenants is always increasing. This past summer our overall Warrior Forge performance improved in almost every measurable category.”

She said, “I’m looking forward to the Warrior Forge bound members of our team capturing this recognition again this year. You are clearly raising the bar and maximizing your potential as you prepare to serve our great nation.”

Speier added that the completion of the cadets’ degrees is the cornerstone to becoming an officer and without the support from Black Hills State University, Chadron State College and the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, the program would not exist.

During the scholarship portion of the program, several CSC students received awards.

The American Legion Awards for general military excellence in ROTC and academics, outstanding leadership, discipline, character and citizenship included the Gold Award for Military Excellence given to Cadet Kaylee Brewer of Murdock, Neb., and the Silver Award for Scholastic Excellence presented to Cadet Evan Baker of Ord, Neb.

Cadet Kassie VanDiest of Dunning, Neb., received a $300 scholarship from the Korean War Veterans Association. This award recognizes cadets who excel academically as well as militarily and are also in financial need.

Cadet James Barrows of Chadron received the Jon and Laura Hansen Horizon Scholarship for $250. It is awarded to a cadet who has exhibited exceptional potential and leadership.

Tallman received the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution award for demonstrated academic excellence, dependability, good character, military discipline, leadership and patriotism.

Cadet Kenny McAlpine of Elbert, Colo., received the Sons of the American Revolution ROTC Medal in recognition of outstanding leadership qualities, military bearing and excellence.