Air Force JROTC cadets from Sullivan South and 17 other schools across 6 states recently converged upon Concord University in Athens WV.  They were there to participate in the Mountaineer Cadet Officer Leadership School (MCOLS).  This is the 14th year for the event, promoting leadership, teamwork and military protocol.  For a full week, 241 cadets took part in physical fitness, uniform and room inspections, academics, drill and ceremonies, and various confidence courses.  Up at 5AM and going non-stop until 9PM, this course is both challenging and rewarding.  Cadets who have previously attended MCOLS and are nominated by their home instructors are given the opportunity to return as cadre.  These cadets are tasked with executing all operational aspects of MCOLS.

This year was unique in that a special guest was able to attend; Maj General Jerry Martinez, the current Director of Operations for the Air Mobility Command.  General Martinez participated in the end-of-course picnic and field day where he shook hands, answered questions and took part in the MCOLS tradition of signing the cadets t-shirts.  The next day, he joined the cadet corps for breakfast, sitting down with as many cadets as he was able.  Later, he was the guest speaker at the graduation parade.  General Martinez commended the cadets for their dedication to improving themselves and fostering teamwork.  He was also genuinely impressed with the cadets precise marching ability during the graduation parade, which included a pass in review.  The instructors and cadets were very appreciative of General Martinez's interest in MCOLS and JROTC as a whole.  His visit made for a very memorable end to an outstanding week.

Cadets who attend MCOLS take what they've learned back to their home units to continue the programs goal; building better citizens of character, dedicated to serving their country.

The final School's Out, Let's Cookout celebration was held at Sullivan North on Thursday, July 14.  The attendance was amazing!  It is estimated that 439 meals were served! Over 350 backpacks, school supplies and books were distributed. In addition, community partners handed out lots of other fun goodies! 

Teri Hammonds, Summer Feeding Coordinator, along with the SCS Hunger Task Force would like to thank all of the volunteers that supported the School's Out, Let's Cookout efforts! Your dedication, energy and support directly impacted the success of the program!