[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 23 (Wednesday, March 6, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E280]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING THE JUNIOR ROTC CLASS OF CASS HIGH SCHOOL, GEORGIA

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                             HON. BOB BARR

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 6, 2002

  Mr. BARR of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, at a time when the country remains 
understandably concerned about national and homeland security, it is 
reassuring to see a bring young group of students interested not only 
in becoming part of our military programs, but taking it upon 
themselves to begin one of their own. High school students who 
participate in Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps learn practical 
information that teach leadership, foster patriotism, and polish 
individual character; all traits that can be applied in every 
professional arena, whether or not they become part of the U.S. 
military directly.
  I am proud to say that in the 7th District of Georgia, we have a 
wonderful program at Cass High School in Bartow County. The lengths to 
which the support system at Cass went in order to start their JROTC 
program early, is a true testament to their dedicated service. It was 
quite an ordeal for the students, faculty, and parents of Cass students 
to get JROTC classes up and running. Under normal conditions it takes 
five years for the application process to be completed, but in this 
case the school board was petitioned and the program rushed through.
  The rapid implementation of the program can be attributed largely to 
two determined students: seniors Matt Barnes and Sarah Cavazzini. The 
two students recognized the need for a course that promoted maturity, 
discipline, and commitment. Educator Jeannie Buck says she has seen 
students turn a full circle due to the program. Sara Cavazzini was one 
of the first girls to be in the JROTC technology program, and became 
very involved in the engineering efforts of the program as well. She 
plans to continue here education at Auburn University's Navy ROTC 
program. Matt Barnes became interested in the military when he joined 
the Junior Silver Air Patrol in sixth grade. As a result of his success 
in that organization, he was awarded the Silver Air Patrol Award. 
Matt's desire to continue his education regarding the armed forces 
motivated him to initiate the JROTC program at Cass. Matt plans to join 
the military following graduation in June.
  JROTC courses at Cass are under the direction of Brent Bunkley, and 
are support by a large network of teachers, administrators, parents, 
and other students. Students are responsible for purchasing their own 
uniforms, and parental support is the primary means by which the 
classes are kept afloat. Teens enrolled in JROTC earn class credit, as 
well as life-long lessons such as discipline, teamwork, and leadership.
  The Cass High School JROTC program has made itself available for 
appearances at parades, and the presentation of colors for athletic 
events. I would like to commend the JROTC students at Cass for their 
foresight and dedication, as well as the parents and faculty who supply 
their own time and money to ensure the best for the future of their 
students. I hope my fellow members of the House join in applauding the 
JROTC program and in particular, the program at Cass High School in 
Bartow County, Georgia.

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