Drill Meet

In the fall, my 15-year-old son joined the Air Force JROTC program at a nearby high school. By day two he voluntarily began the after school drill practice. He's participated in a few drill meets, even placing in one event. Yesterday I took the opportunity to attend my first drill meet.

I was clueless, but fascinated (mainly because my child was out there performing). These teenagers are in full uniform, being inspected for appearance, knowledge and precision when moving through various commands as a team. They are very serious about making a good show for the school.

There were twelve teams, three of which were from one high school with a long-standing program. Our team, in only its 3rd year, was the only team that stood in the way of a full sweep of 1st place trophies by that single school. Our group won the Armed Color Guard 1st place trophy and the top spot for the IDR, an individual contest for all cadets to test their ability to follow marching commands. Individuals on our team placed 1, 2, and 3 in IDR. My son was even in the top 10 of the 200 cadets that participated. They are going to become a great team.

My son wants to be a pilot in the U.S. Air Force. It seems like he has made a good start. He's very competitive and I can hardly wait to see how much he is able to achieve. I want him to soar, but stay grounded in Christ.

II Timothy 2 (v.1) You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (v.5) And also if anyone competes in atletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.