JROTC End of the Year Banquet 2025

Photo Credit and Article: Zarifa Mammadli

The JROTC Military Ball, also called a Banquet, is a ceremony that honors cadets for their dedication and achievements throughout the year, celebrating their commitment to service and upholding Army values. Hosted by the senior cadets, or Let 4’s, the event features a theme chosen by them, with this year’s theme being Arabian Nights at the FHS cafeteria. Male cadets attended in formal uniforms, while female cadets were encouraged to dress in theme or in formal attire. The event includes the presentation of colors, the National Anthem and Cadet Creed, reinforcing the principles of honor, integrity, and leadership.

Speeches from Major Chen, the instructor of JROTC, Captain Perez, the guest of honor, and other community leaders, provide motivation and support for future aspirations. The evening also includes a slideshow highlighting the cadets’ post-high school plans and reflecting on their JROTC Journey. Something inevitable to see in a JROTC banquet is a Memorial Table, with a white tablecloth, The Bible and a red rose, each of which symbolizes respect for those who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The ceremony culminates with awards, including the prestigious Superior Cadet honor, followed by an emotional Change of Command ceremony where the old Battalion Commander, Kiara Bacchus, passes the flag to the new one, Shane Casamalhuapa, marking the beginning of a new chapter of leadership. 

A highlight of the night was the guest of honor’s speech;. Captain Alexandra E. Perez shared an inspiring story of her path to success. As an immigrant from Peru, and with difficult family circumstances, she discussed how she maintained academic excellence, and eventually enlisted in the Army in 2009. After earning her commission in 2014, she served in various leadership roles, including her deployment to Kuwait with the 348th Field Hospital. There, she led initiatives such as the Women’s Peace, and Security initiative and created the first faith-based T-wall and Spiritual Fitness 5K event. She has earned numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal and Army Commendation Medal, and has held various staff and command positions. Captain Perez is a passionate advocate for service and faith, pursuing her Masters' of Divinity while also excelling in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Her perseverance and dedication to both her military career and faith have demonstrated that success is not defined by the obstacles faced, but by determination to overcome them. She encouraged cadets to follow their dreams and reminded them that with hard work, resilience, and strong faith in God, anything is possible. 

The banquet proved to be a success, concluding in a lively reception as cadets transformed the cafeteria into a dance floor featuring FHS seniors, DJ Lani and Joel Garces. Preceding that, former JROTC instructor of 13 years, Sergeant First Class-Retired (SFC-R) Samuel made a surprise appearance at the event, making the event even more memorable and emotional for the Let 4s. The Military Ball fostered a spirited atmosphere, leaving attendees eagerly anticipating future banquets enriched with engaging activities and enhancements.