There are 31 Hixson High School Air Force JROTC students taking a week out of their summer vacation to attend The Mountaineer Cadet Officer Leadership School at Concord University, Athens, WV.
"MCOLS is one of the finest AFJROTC Summer Leadership Schools," school officials said. "The daily schedule very much mirrors an actual military schedule. Mornings start dark and early at 5 a.m. and do not end until lights out at 9 p.m. The skills the cadets pick up in their journey through JROTC can be applied to any workplace and life in general.
Throughout the week across the Concord campus, the echoes of drill commands and unit pride can be heard from the corps of cadets. Not only are they engrossed in their daily training schedule, they are gearing up and rehearsing for the end of the week.
"They conduct a formal retreat each day and after Friday’s retreat, a formal flag retirement ceremony is held. The retirement ceremony is followed to the letter as to how to properly and respectfully dispose of US Flags that have become worn, weathered or damaged. On Saturday, the entire group gathers on the University football field for a pass and revue in front of command staff, family and friends. The event is a great source of pride and accomplishment for these young cadets.
"MCOLS is serious leadership preparation. MCOLS is not summer camp – but it is a rewarding and enjoyable experience, especially after graduation. Cadets are selected to attend because of demonstrated desire and potential to be leaders. The tone and tempo of MCOLS is designed to take cadets out of their comfort zone, place them in a safe but stressful environment, and provide them with the knowledge, skills, and self-confidence to be leaders."
Hixson High School this year has 4 cadets going back to MCOLS for the third time. Two of these cadets will be assigned leadership positions and must be ready, able and willing to assist in the training and care of basic cadets.