ROTC Archive

Fox Valley Archive of ROTC Award Winners

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This page is an archive of some of the ROTC winners recognized by the Fox Valley chapter in previous years.

Generally these high school or college cadets have been awarded the Bronze ROTC medal, but there are a few exceptions. The photos and a brief comment on each winner appears in the photo section below.

The main page for ROTC Awards has a listing of the schools supported by Fox Valley as well as photos of the Bronze ROTC medal and certificate.

Photos of ROTC Award Winners from Previous Years

From 2016

There were a number of winners of SAR medals and awards at Joliet Central High School. The cadet in the middle of the photo is Jared Ellis who was the winner of the Bronze JROTC Medal. Standing on the right in the photo is Jessy Marasco, who won Third place in the Chapter's Outstanding Cadet contest and was awarded a Good Citizenship medal and $75 from the chapter. He will be the commanding officer of the Joliet Central JROTC program next year.

Standing on the left in the photo is Vanessa Flores who won Second Place in both the Chapter and State SAR Outstanding JROTC Cadet contests. She received $125 from the Chapter, $500 from the State and a Good Citizenship medal.

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Patrick Guest, the Drill Commander of the Aurora West JROTC program. Cadet Guest was in charge of presenting all of the awards and medals at the ceremony. He was crisp, sharp, very poised and precise. Cadet Guest plans to go to community college and then enter the military went finished.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Lian Solanski a Junior in the Bolingbrook High School Air Force JROTC program in May 2016. Lian will be the S-4 or administrative officer for his senior year. He plans to go to college and perhaps become a teacher or enter the military as an officer.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Matthew Reed-Manning a Junior at Joliet West High School Army JROTC program. He placed fourth in the Chapter and the State Outstanding Cadet contest. He has been selected as next year's Commanding Officer. Matthew hopes to enter Annapolis, the U.S. Naval Academy.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Aidan Piwnicki a Junior at Lincolnway Central/West High School Air Force JROTC program in May 2016. Aidan is also President of the Kitty Hawk Honor Society. Based on his popularity with his peers, he should receive an important JROTC position for his senior year.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Stephen Kowalewski a Freshman at Lockport High School Air Force JROTC program in May 2016. As a Freshman, Stephen does not yet have the opportunity for an important position. But he enjoys being on the drill team which requires a more rigid regimen than for other ROTC students.

In May 2016, Compatriot Deeks Carroll, not shown, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Joseph Fremgen (left), and Deeks presented the Bronze Good Citizenship medal to Cadet Conor Mach (right). Joseph and Conor are members of the Army JROTC program at Marmion Academy.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Sam Schiller a Junior in the Mooseheart High School Navy JROTC program in May 2016. Sam hopes to be the Executive Officer, the second in command, his senior year. Sam aspires to get an appointment to one of the military academies, Annapolis in particular.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Jonathan McFarland a Junior at Romeoville High School Marine JROTC program in May 2016. He will be the Supply Officer next year. Jonathan is on the drill team and will be its commander next year. This year they competed in Washington, D.C. and came in 25th of 3,000 US high schools.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Silver ROTC medal to Cadet Nilesh Pradhan a Freshman in the Northern Illinois University Army JROTC program in May 2016. Nilesh is from St. Charles, IL. He is included in the Scholar level for the ROTC program meaning he had a 3.0 or higher on all his grades.

In May 2016, Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Maxwell Gierke a Sophomore in the Wheaton College Army ROTC program. Max is on the Wheaton College Wrestling team and is ranked fifth in the state at his weight division. Academically, he is a pre-med major.

From 2015

Each year we select an Outstanding Cadet for the Fox Valley chapter. The winner must be a super cadet, with outstanding grades and exemplary military credentials. This year's winner was Matthew Fleckenstein of Lincoln Way Central High School. He placed second in the state SAR contest among participating cadets. He is ranked second in his class of 436 students.

Matthew is a Cadet Colonel, highest rank in AF JROTC, and is Deputy Commander of the Unit, second highest ranking officer. He hopes to attend one of the military academies on graduation, prefering West Point. Matthew will attend a West Point Leadership Program at the Academy this year and is using his prize money to help pay the expenses. His activities and awards are too numerous to mention in this small space. He is shown with his parents, Ray and Doris, and Compatriot Dale Bottom, who is a retired Navy Commander.

Aurora East has the largest non-military academy JROTC program in the United States and is entitled to two winners. Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Commander Edmando Delgado (l) & Cadet Executive Officer Giovanni Gutierrez (r). Edmando has enlisted in the Navy. Giovanni holds the honor of the highest shooting record in Illinois.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Allison Eichorst of the Romeoville High School Marine ROTC program in May 2015. She was also awarded a Good Citizenship medal for placing third in our chapter among JROTC students. She is a platoon sergeant, second in command of her class and is the Public Affairs officer for the unit.

Aurora West Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Commander Leonardo Flores in May 2015. Leonardo is a first year student in the new Air Force JROTC program. Lt. Col Erik Pettyjohn, who was the Senior Military Instructor at Lincoln Way West, moved to Aurora West to start the new program.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet James Prusak of the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way Central High School. Jim is the 2015 winner at his high school and received the medal and certificate in May. He also a member of the Varsity tennis team and the marching band.

Compatriot Dale Bottom also presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Megan Deneen of the now combined Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way West and Lincoln Way Central High Schools. Unfortunately, no photo was taken that night with Dale, but the military advisor was happy to send us a photo of Deneen holding her certificate and medal.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Raphael Hillsman of the Air Force ROTC program at Bolingbrook High School at ceremony in May. Raphael is a junior and has achieved the rank of Master Sergeant. He also plays on the soccer and tennis teams. Raphael plans to join the army upon graduation and hopes to become a Drill Sergeant.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Joseph Imburgia at the ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at the Lockport High School in May 2015. He was inducted into the prestigious Kitty Hawk Society and will attend a Leadership Conference at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois this summer.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Clayton Pelzer at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet West High School in May 2015. He received many awards at the ceremony. Clayton has been selected as the future Commanding Officer of the Battalion. He was also the runner up for the Outstanding Cadet for Fox Valley.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Kwabena Ampofo at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet Central High School in May 2015. He has achieved the rank of Captain and is the Supply officer for the unit. Kwabena is a member of both the swim and tennis teams.

In May 2015, Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Lt. Commander Leslie Ballard, the Executive officer of the Mooseheart High School unit who is a four year student of the Naval JROTC program. Every high school student is required to take ROTC at Mooseheart. Leslie's professionalism and pride are clear in this photo.

Compatriot Deeks Carrol presented the Silver ROTC medal and certificate to Jared Galvan during the awards banquet in May 2015. He is the 2015 winner for the Army ROTC program at Northern Illinois University. Jared shows the bearing of a soldier in this photo. Space did not allow the full photo which shows that Jared is holding his Silver ROTC certificate.

In May 2015, Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Silver ROTC medal and certificate to Sarah VanWingerden. She is the 2015 winner for the Army ROTC program at Wheaton College. Sarah, from a small town near Champaign, is a freshman and is studying pre-med. She is an excellent student with a very high GPA.

From 2014

At the Board of Managers meeting in Springfield Illinois, Stephanie Lee was presented with a special medal, certificate, an engraved ceremonial sabre and a check for $500. Making the presentation were Compatriot Dale Bottom of the Fox Valley Chapter, Tom Ashby, Illinois President of the SAR and Joe Dooley, the President General of the National SAR.

Stephanie Lee is a Junior at Joliet West High School and she won the Chapter, State and placed fourth in the National Outstanding Cadet Contest. In addition to being a top student, with outstanding personal and military leadership qualities, the contestants are required to write a 500 to 700 word essay, the subject being, "How JROTC has prepared me to be a better citizen of the United States of America." Stephanie is NUMBER ONE in her class of 740 students. At the Awards Ceremony she was made the Commanding Officer of the Battalion for next year and promoted to the rank of Cadet Lt. Colonel over several of her colleagues of higher rank. This is a great honor and a reflection of her leadership skills. In addition to all kinds of extracurricular activities, she also works part time.

Compatriot Deeks Carroll presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Robert Tellor of the Romeoville High School Marine ROTC program. Robert is the 2014 winner at his high school.

Aurora Sea Cadets can be from any high school. Kevin Claus received the Bronze ROTC medal from Dale Bottom. Kevin is the 2014 winner for the Aurora Sea Cadets.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Matthew Rosendale of the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way Central High School. Matthew is the 2014 winner at his high school.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Sydney Campbell of the Air Force ROTC program at Bolingbrook High School. Sydney is the 2014 winner at his high school.

Compatriot Deeks Carroll presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Andrew H. Graves at the ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Marmion Military Academy in May 2014.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Miguel Samano at the ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at the Lockport High School in May 2014.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Ignatz Orlovsky at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet West High School in May 2014.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Tyler Worek at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet Central High School in May 2014.

Compatriot Dale Bottom presented the Silver ROTC medal and certificate to James Grimes. He is the 2014 winner for the Army ROTC program at Northern Illinois University.

From 2013

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Michael Preuter of the Romeoville High School Marine ROTC program. Michael is a Junior and next year will be the Captain of the Drill Team. He plans to go to school in the field of aviation when he graduates.

Aurora Sea Cadets can be from any high school. Joshua San Diego of Central Catholic High School received the Bronze ROTC medal from Dale Bottom. Joshua was promoted to Petty Officer First Class and will be the Lead Petty Officer, the ranking cadet next year. Our medal is held in high regard by all of the high schools in the JROTC program.

Aurora East has the largest non-military academy JROTC program in the United States and is entitled to two winners in 2013. Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Commander Gustavo Castsontzin (l) & Cadet Commander Matthew Miller (r). Gustavo has enlisted in the Navy. Matthew has enlisted in the Marine Corps and wants to be a sniper.

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Platoon leader Chris Schwartz at a ceremony for the Navy ROTC program at Mooseheart in May 2013. Chris is from Bella Vista, Arkansas. Like other students he lives in a dormitory and works chores to help support Mooseheart. It is a very special school with students from all over the world.

Compatriot Jim Garrison presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet TSgt. Lana Crump of the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way Central High School on May 4, 2013. Lana is a member of the Kitty Hawk Air Society (honor society) and she volunteers as a tutor for other students. Her career goal is to provide counseling to veterans of combat.

Compatriot Jim Garrison presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Michelle Housh at the ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way North High School in May 2013. Michelle serves as the JROTC photographer, and she was a member of the Academic Bowl Championship which won 6th place in the United States.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Daniel Hartnett at the ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at the Lockport High School in May 2013. Daniel was also inducted that evening into the Kitty Hawk Air Society. It is the honor society for the Air Force JROTC program.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Corey Kopchak at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet West High School in May 2013. Corey was also the Chapter and Illinois winner of the SAR Outstanding Cadet Contest. Corey has been selected at the Cadet Commanding officer for 2014 at Joliet West.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain John Thorsen at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet Central High School in May 2013. John is the Charlie Company Commander and a member of their excellent Drill Team. He has enlisted in the Navy and hope to go to the Sonar School.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Silver ROTC medal and certificate to Jonathan Mazzone. Jonathan, called John by his friends, attends Northern Illinois University. John is a very engaging, bright young man who in majoring in kinesiology and plans to enter the field of sports medicine after graduation.

From 2012

Lead Petty Officer Stanley Nieweglowski of the Aurora Sea Cadets received the award in 2012 from VP Dale Bottom. Stanley will attend Southern Illinois University where he will enroll in the Air Force ROTC program. He was given high honors by the Commanding Officer and they placed a 6 minute video of his activities as a sea cadet.

Aurora East has the largest non-military academy RJOTC program in the United States with about 750 cadets in 2012. So it is entitled to two winners. Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Ensign Joshua Gurbal (left) & Captain Francisco Martinez on the right. Capt. Martinez was the Commanding Officer of the Battalion this year.

Fox Valley Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Mitchell T. Heaton at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Marmion Military Academy on January 29, 2012. Cadet Heaton also serves as the Adjutant on the Battalion staff. He has an appointment to the United States Naval Academy.

Bob Colby presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Michael Cawall of the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way West High School on May 17, 2012. He also recognized Emily Leddin as Outstanding JROTC Cadet of 2012 in Illinois. Lt. Col George Ramsey, head of the JROTC program, announced she placed second in the National SAR contest.

Compatriot Bob Colby presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Bryon Nush at the ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way North High School on May 15, 2012. Bryon is one of 6 members of the Academic Bowl Championship. His team beat 200 teams to advance to the championship round held in Washington, D.C.

VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Stephanie Rodriguez at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet West High School in May 2012. Stephanie has received numerous awards from the JROTC. In addition, she was named as the new Commanding Officer for the next school year showing what a top notch cadet she is.

From 2011

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Daniel Hernandez of the Navy ROTC program at Aurora East on April 20, 2011. Daniel has over a 5.0 GPA due to taking and making A's in honors courses. He plans to make a career as a Naval officer. East Aurora has the largest number of JROTC students in the USA.

President Bruce Talbot presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Henry Kinane at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Marmion Military Academy on February 13, 2011. Cadet Kinanne is the Charlie Company Commander and is a Dean's List Honors student (3.8 GPA). He is the leader of the Flanagan Rifles unarmed exhibition drill squad.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Good Citizenship medal to Cadet Richard Koehnke at a ceremony for the Aurora Sea Cadets on June 9, 2011. Richard showed real commitment to the Sea Cadets for 6 years by traveling from Palos Park to Aurora. He has now joined the Navy and will be going to Great Lakes for boot camp.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Nick Drazenovic at the annual awards ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at Bolingbrook High School in Bolingbrook on May 6, 2011. Nick, a good student with a 3.5 GPA, plans to go to the University of Chicago to study computer science.

James Garrison presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Colonel Rebecca Mooi at the ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way Central High School on May 6, 2011. Rebecca is the Group Commander, and a member of the Drill Team and Academic Bowl. She has a GPA of 3.99. Rebecca aspires to attend the Air Force Academy.

Compatriot Jim Garrison presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Master Sergeant Nicholas Picciolini of the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way East High School in Frankfort on May 20, 2011. Nicholas coordinates the corps honor program. He is a member of Mu Alpha Theta (math honorary) and the computer club. He plans to be an engineer.

VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Steve Suste at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet West High School on May 4, 2011. Steve, as the Command Sgt. Major, is the third highest ranking member of the command structure. He also received a Service Citation. Steve is thinking about joining the Navy when he graduates.

VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Sgt First Class Deanato Robinson at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet Central High School on May 4, 2011. Deanato is a member of the Color Guard and Honor Guard. He is the safety on the football team. Deanato plans to enlist in the Marine corps after graduation.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Gabriella Drong at the annual ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at Lockport High School on April 29, 2011. Gabriella won her Freshman letter and was inducted into the Arnold Air Society. She has 7 brothers and no sisters! Gabriella plans to join the military after graduation.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Zac Rice at the annual ceremony for the Navy ROTC program at Mooseheart High School on May 6, 2011. Zac was named Commander of the JROTC company. This is a major achievement for a junior, and demonstrates Zac's leadership skills and transformation since arriving at Mooseheart.

James Garrison presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Aaron Zibricky at the ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way Central High School on May 21, 2011. Aaron participates in the corps' academic bowl. He is a defensive end on the football team, and a member of Future Farmers of America. He plans to attend Joliet Junior College.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Silver ROTC medal to Cadet Michael Rossi at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb on May 5, 2011. Michael, who attended high school in Lombard, is a freshman at NIU. He plans to complete ROTC and be commissioned as an army officer.

From 2010

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Phu Le at the annual banquet of the Navy ROTC program at Aurora East High School in Aurora on April 15, 2010. Phu was in command of the entire muster and the well run ceremony. He plans to join the Navy upon graduation.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Good Citizenship medal to Cadet Petty Officer First Class Zachary Dodd at the ceremony for the Naperville Sea Cadets squadron on June 5, 2010. Zachary, cadet in charge of the corps, took a demanding 2 week Navy Seals program. He will attend the University of Illinois in Chicago to study biology. He plans to be a Navy Nurse.

Chapter President Bruce Talbot presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Lucas Magee at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Marmion Military Academy in Aurora on February 24, 2010. Lucas will be attending Eastern Illinois University and is a finalist for an Army ROTC scholarship.

After Chapter VP Dale Bottom was piped aboard and presented the Good Citizenship medal to Cadet Petty Officer Joseph Mayer at a ceremony for the Aurora Sea Cadets on June 12, 2010, he had a piece of cake. Joseph will be studying Engineering and Entrepreneurship at a Community College this fall after spending 2 weeks studying Naval Intelligence this summer.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Salvador Martinez at the annual awards ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at Bolingbrook High School in Bolingbrook on April 17, 2010.

During the annual awards ceremony, Compatriot Jim Garrison presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Master Sergeant Mike Levesque of the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way East High School in Frankfort on May 1, 2010.

Compatriot Clyde Futrell presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Santino Alvarado at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet Central High School in Joliet on May 5, 2010. Santino is a Junior at Joliet Central and he plans to attend a Junior college after graduation in 2011.

Compatriot Clyde Futrell presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Major Alexander Morales at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Joliet West High School on May 5, 2010. Alex will be the Executive Officer for the 2010-11 school year, a position of major responsibility. After graduation, Alex plans to go into the military or attend college.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Edgar Ortiz at the annual ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at Lockport High School in Lockport on April 30, 2010. Edgar, a freshman, plays football and basketball. His family is planning to move to Downers Grove where he intends to find an ROTC program.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Brendon Douglas at the annual ceremony for the Navy ROTC program at Mooseheart High School in Mooseheart on May 7, 2010. Brendon, an all around good student, plays football, runs track and went to state regionals in wrestling.

Compatriot James Garrison presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Alex Troyan at the annual ceremony for the Air Force ROTC program at Lincoln Way Central High School in New Lenox on May 15, 2010. Alex is the support staff officer and has a GPA of 3.7. He will attend IIT in the fall and plans to be an aerospace engineer.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Justin Kidd at a ceremony for the Marine ROTC program at Romeoville High School in Romeoville on May 13, 2010. Justin runs cross country and is a member of Business Professionals of America. His team won regionals this year.

Chapter VP Dale Bottom presented the Silver ROTC medal to Cadet Rutger Glocker at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb on April 29, 2010. Rutger, who attended Glenbard High School in Glen Ellyn, is a freshman with a 3.5 GPA. He plans to complete college and enter the military.

From 2009

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze Good Citizenship medal to US Sea Cadet Petty Officer Stephanie Cabe-Brookins of the Aurora Sea Cadets on June 6, 2009. Cadet Cabe-Brookins will pursue a career in the U.S. Navy, having earned an NROTC scholarship to pursue Chemical Engineering at the University of Illinois-Chicago.

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Lisa Gulczyski on May 1, 2009 at the annual ceremony of the Lockport Air Force ROTC program. Lisa's proud mother was included in our official photo.

Clyde Futrell presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Lt. Ariel Sanchez at the annual ceremony for the Joliet Central High School JROTC program on April 29, 2009.

Clyde Futrell presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Sgt. 1st Class Anthony Hernandez at the annual ceremony for the Joliet West High School JROTC program on April 29, 2009.

From 2008

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze Good Citizenship medal to US Sea Cadet Petty Officer Amanda Glass of the Aurora Sea Cadets on June 7, 2008. Cadet Glass, who ran the ceremony, also won the VFW award. Amanda is taking flying lessons. She is a Certified Plane Captain and will soon return to LeMore Naval Air Station in California to renew her certification.

Bruce Talbot presented the Bronze Good Citizenship medal to US Sea Cadet Petty Officer John Rylko of the Naperville Ghost Rider Squadron on June 7, 2008. Cadet Rylko, a color guard member, won the "Team Spirit" award at the Flagship competition. The Ghost Rider squadron also scored the highest score ever obtained during the Semaphore competition.

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Robert Espanosa at the ceremony for the Romeoville High School Marine JROTC program on May 15, 2008. Cadet Espanosa has enlisted in the Marine Corps, and will soon report to San Diego to begin his training. In addition to the SAR medal, he received a varsity letter and the Commandant's Award.

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Michael Meyers at the very impressive annual formal Dining Out ceremony for the Lockport High School Air Force JROTC program on May 4, 2008. Cadet Meyers also received a local leadership award given to only 5% of the students, and is a member of the "best flight" of the corps.

Bruce Talbot presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Sean Lee at the annual ceremony for the Bolingbrook High School Air Force JROTC program on May 3, 2008. This great program has been named an "Honor Unit" (top 10%) by the Air Force. Cadet Lee plans on attending Southern Illinois University and his goal is to be a pilot flying jets for the Air Force.

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Major John McCombs at the annual ceremony for the Joliet Central High School JROTC program on April 30, 2008. John has a private pilot's licence. He was awarded a Navy ROTC scholarship to the University of Illinois. He will enter the aviation program and plans for a commission in the Marine Corps.

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Tyler Walden at the annual ceremony for the Joliet West High School JROTC program on April 30, 2008. His grandmother and mother attended and were demonstrably proud of him. Cadet Walden is highly praised by the staff. His interest is in computer applied technologies.

Henry Leonard, a long time member of the Fox Valley Chapter, presented the Silver ROTC medal to Cadet Kowalski at a ceremony for the Army ROTC program at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb on April 23, 2008.

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Commander Antelmo Rojas at the annual ceremony for the Aurora East High School JROTC program on April 15, 2008. This is a great program with a lot of esprit de corps. Cadet Rojas plans to attend the U of I, but he is taking a year off to work to help a friend and fellow cadet with enormous medical expenses.

Bruce Talbot presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet First Lt. Joshua J. Stein at the annual banquet on February 24, 2008. The speaker was Major General Daniel Bolger, a Marmion alum. Cadet Stein is an academic honor cadet and Marmion Academy Track Team member. He plans on attending Columbia University in New York City as a pre-med student.

From 2007

Bruce Talbot pinned the Bronze Good Citizenship medal on the chest of US Naval Sea Cadet Leading Petty Officer Miguel Luciano at the annual ceremony (see photos) on June 9, 2007 at the Army Reserve Center in Aurora. The Aurora Division of the US Naval Sea Cadets is comprised of 15 cadets, and they are commanded by LTJG Brian K. Kobleur.

Bruce Talbot pinned the Bronze Good Citizenship medal on the chest of Cadet Chief Petty Officer John J. McGarry at the annual ceremony on June 2, 2007 for the "Ghostriders", the U.S. Navy Sea Cadets at Naperville Central High School. They are led by LTJG Delbert Luzadder. Cadet McGarry is the Color Guard Commander this year and next.

Jim Garrison, compatriot of the Fox Valley chapter, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Ken Bowles at the banquet for Lincoln Way Central high school on May 20, 2007. There were 250 people attending the banquet. Ken, who is 18, is an Eagle Scout, and plans to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps after high school graduation.

Dale Bottom presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Ewelina Zajkowski at the banquet for Lockport East High School in early May 2007. The AF ROTC banquet was held at the Renaissance Center in Joliet, originally designed by Daniel Burnham. Replacing the damaged photo of Ewelina is one of the sword salute creating a formal entrance.

On May 3, 2007 Fox Valley compatriot Clyde Futrell presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet 1st Sergeant Garrett King of Joliet West High School.

On May 3, 2007 Fox Valley compatriot Clyde Futrell also presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Hector Castellanos of Joliet Central High School. Clyde juggled his schedule to honor these fine young men in separate ceremonies on the same day.

Dale Bottom, Chairman of the ROTC program for the Fox Valley chapter, presented the Silver ROTC medal to Cadet John Belisario at NIU on April 27, 2007. The Silver ROTC medal is given to students at the college level. John is a Freshman from Gurnee, IL majoring in Physical Therapy.

Because of his successes with the Fox Valley ROTC programs, Bruce Talbot was selected to head up the state-wide SAR ROTC programs in 2006. On March 29, 2007 Bruce handed off his local ROTC responsibilities to Dale Bottom, Chairman of the ROTC committee for the Fox Valley chapter. Dale is a former Navy Commander and a fine golfer.

Cadet Jordan Maley receives the Good Citizenship award from Compatriot Dale Bottom at the Marmion Military Academy awards night, Sunday, February 25, 2007. Compatriot Bottom is a retired military officer and a member of the Fox Valley Chapter. Bruce Talbot presented the ROTC medal that evening to another cadet.

From 2006

On May 18, 2006, Bruce Talbot, Chairman of the ROTC committee, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Lt. Rebecca Cejka at a ceremony in the auditorium of Romeoville High School. Cadet Lt. Cejka distinguished herself as a member of the Marine Corps JROTC Academic Competition Team which placed in the top quarter of all Marine JROTC teams.

On May 5, 2006, Tom Van Cleave, long-time chapter member, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to LTJG Robert Picker at a ceremony at Mooseheart High School. In addition to the presentation of medals from several national patriotic organizations, the ceremony featured routines from the Mooseheart ROTC drill teams.

On May 5, 2006, Don Parrish, Chapter President, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Allison Anderson, an outstanding Junior at Lockport Township High School. In the photo, Don is flanked by Allison and Robert Chlum, last year's winner, who was promoted to Cadet Lt. Colonel during the Awards Banquet attended by about 300 people.

On April 29, 2006, Bruce Talbot, Chapter Secretary, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Tom Boller, an outstanding Junior at Bolingbrook High School. Tom has already joined the Army Reserve and will be in boot camp this summer, then he will return to finish his high school senior year. Then he will return to the Army for Advanced Infantry Training.

On April 18, 2006, Bruce Talbot, Chapter Secretary, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Navy JROTC Cadet Commander Joshua Petersohn of Aurora East High School. Cadet Commander Petersohn led the Color Guard to first place in the United States!! He plans to become a fireman and is currently an intern at the Montgomery Fire Department.

On March 5, 2006, Bruce Talbot, Chapter Secretary, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Christopher A. Lindsay of Marmion Military Academy during their annual Military Awards Night. Cadet Lindsay is the commander of an award-winning drill team. He plans to attend Notre Dame majoring in Medical Engineering to prepare for Medical school.

From 2005

On June 2, 2005, Bruce Talbot, Chapter Secretary, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Mark E. Wicherek of Lincoln-Way Central High School at their Air Force JROTC 10th annual Awards Banquet. Cadet Wicherek is in the top 10 percent of his class and has enlisted in the US Air Force with plans to specialize in ordinance disposal and demolition.

On May 19, 2005, Bruce Talbot presented the ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Loreto Kintanar III of Romeoville High School. Cadet Kintanar is completing his fourth year in the JROTC program and plans to attend Joliet Junior College. Bruce mentioned to the cadet Marines that his patriot ancestor was the first to use the Marines as a fighting force aboard ship.

On April 30, 2005, Bruce Talbot, Chapter Secretary, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Senior Master Sergeant Sedric L. Williams of Bolingbrook High School. Cadet Williams' career goal is meteorology, and he believes the Air Force is the best path to obtain the necessary education and experience to make his goal a reality.

On April 29, 2005, Bruce Talbot, Chapter Secretary, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet Captain Robert Chlum of Lockport Township High School at the Air Force Junior ROTC 29th Awards Night Banquet and Dining Out at the Joliet Renaissance Center. Cadet Chlum is the Color Guard Commander and a member of the unit's Executive Staff. Cadet Chlum is in the top 10 percent of his AFJROTC class and is a member of the Kitty Hawk Air Society, the high school Air Force JROTC equivalency of the National Honor Society.

On March 6, 2005, Bruce Talbot, Chapter Secretary, presented the Bronze R.O.T.C. medal to Cadet Lt Col Elliot R. Lauzen of Marmion Military Academy during their annual Military Awards Night. Cadet Lauzen made the First Honors list and All-Conference academic honors. He is both an Illinois State Scholar and a 2005 National Merit Scholarship winner.

From 2004

On May 12, 2004, Don Parrish, Chapter President, presented the Bronze ROTC medal to Cadet LTJG Michael Ziegler of Mooseheart High School. The presentation took place as part of the annual change of command ceremonies in the Field House of Mooseheart. There were two precision drill team performances to commence the ceremony. Commander Gregg Hansen, who runs the N.J.R.O.T.C. program at Mooseheart, ran this ceremony.