[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 67 (Thursday, April 16, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





  HONORING THE PACE HIGH SCHOOL NAVY JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICERS TRAINING 
                             CORPS PROGRAM

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JIMMY PATRONIS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 16, 2026

  Mr. PATRONIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pride to recognize 
and commend the exceptional accomplishments of the Pace High School 
Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) program, a group 
of young leaders who continue to make Northwest Florida proud.
  Recently, the cadets of Pace High School NJROTC competed at the 
NJROTC National Championship held in Pensacola, Florida, where they 
earned an outstanding second place finish among the very best programs 
in the Nation. This achievement reflects not only their hard work and 
determination, but also the countless hours of preparation, discipline, 
and teamwork they have demonstrated throughout the year.
  The NJROTC program is a nationally respected initiative dedicated to 
developing leadership, citizenship, and character among high school 
students. With more than 580 units across the country, only a select 
number advance through rigorous regional competitions to reach the 
national stage. Pace High School's continued success at this level is a 
clear testament to the strength and consistency of its program. It also 
reflects the spirit of Northwest Florida's proud military tradition, 
where homegrown talent rises to meet the highest standards of service, 
leadership, and excellence.
  Over the past five years, Pace High School NJROTC has distinguished 
itself as a national powerhouse, earning three national championships 
and multiple top three finishes, including this year's impressive 
second-place result. This sustained excellence speaks volumes about the 
commitment of the cadets, the leadership of their instructors, and the 
strong support of their school and community.
  I am especially proud of these cadets. They exemplify the very best 
of Northwest Florida and act as outstanding ambassadors for Pace High 
School, Santa Rosa County, and the State of Florida.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Pace High School 
NJROTC cadets, their instructors, and their leadership team on this 
extraordinary accomplishment. I wish them continued success as they 
carry forward this proud tradition of excellence.

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