The Cy Springs Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, or AFJROTC, earned top ranks during their most recent unit evaluation. The Cy Springs AFJROTC, which is a joint unit that harbors eight Cy Ranch students, earned an evaluation of “exceeds standards” when they were inspected by a colonel from the AFJROTC headquarters.

The inspector assessed the unit’s marching and commanding abilities, how they learned in the classroom, and their uniform quality. The Cy Springs cadets were recognized for their excellence in drill, their cadet ownership of the program, and an excellent mission briefing. By exceeding the standards set, the Cy Springs unit proved they will be exceptional going forward.

“It distinguishes us from other units,” said Cadet 2nd Lt. sophomore Madison Guinn.

This honor goes beyond the individual inspection. Guinn emphasized that maintaining these standards is what will really set the Cy Springs unit apart.

“Everything we do is set to a standard, and we need to follow it exactly,” she said. “Right now we’re in JROTC and that will prepare us for not only ROTC and the military, but life in general. They want to hold us to higher standards and they want us to be respectful and educated.”

Being in AFJROTC has taught Guinn, who plans to join the Air Force, invaluable skills.

“It’s discipline,” she said. “It gives you leadership. It allows you the chance to go up the ranks, and if you want to enter the military it sets an example.”

Guinn was one of three unit members to be named a Top Performer by the inspector, an honor given to only two percent of cadets. She, along with Cadet Cpt. Solomon Scott and Cadet 2nd Lt. Itzel Guzman, were recognized for their hard work and active involvement.

“It’s an honor,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting it at all.”

Going forward, senior aerospace science instructor Lt. Col. Charles Pryor expects great things from the unit.

“The Cypress Springs and Cypress Ranch cadets performed exceptionally well and take great pride in each other, the team they have created, and the work they do,” he said.