Broward County Public Schools to honor exceptional JROTC cadets at annual cadet of the year ceremony at Pompano beach high school

Broward County, Florida – Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) will host its annual JROTC Cadet of the Year ceremony on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Pompano Beach High School, where students, families, and dignitaries will gather to honor the dedication, leadership, and heroism of the district’s junior ROTC cadets. The ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. at 600 N.E. 13th Ave., Pompano Beach, FL, and will highlight the remarkable accomplishments of cadets from the district’s 31 programs across 29 high schools.

The highlight of the event will be the announcement of the prestigious JROTC Cadet of the Year, who will be presented with a trophy and scholarship in recognition of their exceptional leadership, academic achievements, and commitment to service. This award, which honors the top cadet in BCPS, is a testament to the high standards and values instilled through the district’s renowned military programs.

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This year’s ceremony will also feature the presentation of the Medal of Heroism to a cadet who performed a brave act of courage by saving four fellow cadets caught in a rip current at the beach. The heroic actions of this cadet exemplify the character and training of BCPS’s JROTC students, who are taught not only to lead but also to serve and protect others in times of crisis.

Dr. Howard Hepburn, BCPS Superintendent, will conduct a traditional Pass and Review during the event. This long-standing military tradition sees a commanding officer inspecting and saluting the unit’s personnel, symbolizing respect for the cadets’ discipline and service. The Pass and Review is a powerful moment that underscores the commitment to excellence within the JROTC program.

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BCPS continues to maintain one of the largest and most successful JROTC programs in the nation, with over 5,000 students participating and an impressive 99% graduation rate. The program equips students with valuable leadership skills, discipline, and character, preparing them for success both in and outside of the classroom.

This annual ceremony serves as a fitting tribute to the dedication and achievements of the district’s JROTC cadets, showcasing the bright future of these young leaders who continue to make a significant impact in their communities and beyond.