Todd County Central High School’s JROTC Rebel Battalion and cheer team were both selected to march in Kentucky’s 62nd Inaugural Governor’s Parade in Frankfort.
Senior Army Instructor Jim Daigle says the Rebel Battalion is the only JROTC unit in the region that will be marching in the parade, something he adds is a huge honor and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Todd Central’s unit is a relatively new battalion formed only two years ago. Because of this, Daigle says the unit is made up mostly of students in their first through third years – with incredibly limited senior leaders.
Around 30 cadets will march in the parade, led by senior Student Battalion Commander Samara Neyens.
The Rebel Battalion has been working hard and practicing for around a month in preparation for the parade. Their final dress rehearsal will be marching in the Elkton Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 9.
Daigle adds Todd Central’s JROTC is one of the few programs that is not yet funded by the U.S. Army.
Daigle says no matter where you’re from, whether it’s the smallest or biggest town in Kentucky, if you work hard you’ll receive excellent opportunities. In fact, Daigle already has his sights set on the Battalion’s next opportunity – in Washington, D.C.
Those interested in donating to the Rebel Battalion should contact Stephanie Schutt at the high school.
Coached by Leslee Harrison, Todd Central’s cheer team, consisting of 11 cheerleaders, will join the JROTC in the inaugural parade.
This is Harrison’s first year as cheer coach and she, along with her cheerleaders, are all very excited to make their way to Frankfort.
Harrison says this has been an exciting year for the school, with Todd Central celebrating its 60th anniversary and the cheer team preparing to compete in their state competition – two things that she thinks set the team apart from others.
She adds not many young adults get to experience this kind of opportunity. She wants them to realize what the governor has done for Kentucky, especially teachers, and what a huge honor it is to participate in the parade.
The 62nd Inaugural Parade will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 12 in Frankfort at 11 a.m. EST with the public Swearing-In Ceremony at 3 p.m.
