Are you building a lasting legacy for others to follow?
Each day, I’m amazed at the talent we have in our own backyards.
It’s all around us, and we don’t have to look too far.
This past week, I was in Florida with 10 amazing Hillsborough County High School ROTC Cadets, all competing for Cadet of the Year.
It was part of our Chapter’s mission to support these students, as we awarded $5,000 through our Chapter, JJ Corbett 555 Parachute Infantry Association.
In attendance were also JJ Corbett, his son, and other family members.
There is a rich history behind the 555 Parachute Infantry Association (PIA).
Our Chapter has the oldest living member of the 555 Parachute Infantry Association, J.J. Corbett, who was in attendance, making the event even more special.
J.J. Corbett is 103 years old.
What an honor it was to be in his presence, knowing of the legacy he built around the 555 PIA.
Not all of our chapter members reside in Tampa, Florida; members from Atlanta, Alabama, and North Carolina were present this past Thursday, March 26, 2026, to honor his legacy and offer support.
As I listened to the credentials of three Army JROTC Cadets, three Air Force JROTC Cadets, three Navy JROTC Cadets, and one Marine JROTC Cadet, I was impressed by their legacy of giving back to the community.
I’m aware that we never know the lives we will touch that will make a difference in others’ lives.
All 10 Cadets, as they prepare to graduate soon, have made a lasting impression, with one taking top honors as the Cadet of the Year.
As we bring Women’s History Month to a close, out of the 10 Cadets competing, there were seven female cadets in the running for top honors.
That alone says plenty about the future, and I’m sure all seven of these young ladies will continue to leave their mark on history.
Although the Cadet of the Year went to the Air Force Junior ROTC, Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Vidyarth Sathya, every one of the other Cadets was a winner.
Having completed Army JROTC in high school as well, I found that wearing the uniform was an honor and taught me many things about standards.
Nowadays, we can see the various standards of dress being exemplified by those who have served in the military.
It’s in our blood.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the Post Commander Sonia R. DeYampert for American Legion Post 167 Carmichael-Legree, Tampa, Florida.
LTC Retired Sonia R. DeYampert is also a Toastmaster whom I met many years ago in Birmingham. LTC Retired Sonia R. DeYampert received a standing ovation for her rendition of “Old Glory.” It was flawless!
Another example of “Build A Lasting Legacy” both in and out of uniform.
I leave you with three quotes to think about:
“The greatest legacy anyone can leave behind is to positively impact the lives of others.” ~ Roy T. Bennett
“What you do is your history. What you set in motion is your legacy.” ~ Leonard Sweet
“Your legacy is measured in lives touched, not wealth gathered.” ~ Unknown
Today, I challenge you to think about the legacy you have built or are building through your presence.
I also had the privilege to attend the Cadet of the Year event. I share your sentiments about a memorable and inspiring evening. We were all invigorated by those exemplary young people and reassured that the future is in very capable hands. We also saw the impact that JROTC can have on the development of students who are exceptional academically, but who are also becoming the leaders our nation must have to continue to flourish.
Sam,
What an honor it was for me to be part of your team this past week. Because you were the lead for the Scholarship event, I’m humbled by your comments. It’s without a doubt “We were all invigorated by those exemplary young people and reassured that the future is in very capable hands.”
I look forward to next year’s event.
McKinley
This was a great article. I am proud to be in the same Triple Nickle Chapter as Trooper Chaplin McKinley Curtis. I agree with every point you made, down to the quotes you selected. This is your legacy as well. Let’s continue to ensure we support our JROTC Students.
Trooper Barren,
I’m humbled by your words. Thank you so much for your support and for what you bring to our Triple Nickle Chapter!
We must continue to ensure we support our youth and the legacy as well. I’m honored to be part of the Scholarship Committee with Trooper Sam Taylor.
Trooper Curtis