FHS JROTC Cadet Receives National Honor

Published September 16, 2015

Franklin High’s Junior Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (JROTC) Battalion Commander Lauren Hall is one of 60 JROTC students nationwide to receive the Legion of Valor Bronze Cross. A ceremony was held in her honor on September 11.

“I was really surprised, and it was an honor to find out that I was receiving such a high award that only so many people receive every year,” said Lauren. “It seems so surreal. Last year my mentor Tia Hyatt received this same award, and I feel so fortunate to follow in her footsteps.”

This award is the highest national award that can be given to a high school JROTC cadet who has shown consistent leadership qualities, community service, dedication to their high school and has exceeded normal expectations of a high school student.

“Lauren has been an outstanding cadet for four years,” said Lt. Col. and Franklin High JROTC instructor Greg Hoover. “She is the battalion commander, the senior ranking cadet in our program. She is very deserving of this national JROTC award. She is a selfless, caring leader and sets a superb example for the younger cadets. She is superior in academics as she is enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program, organizes community outreach to the Morningside Assisted Living community and exemplifies the JROTC mission of becoming a better citizen.”

After graduation, Lauren plans to attend college and pursue a career as an ESL teacher overseas. Franklin Police Officer Clayton Cates presented Lauren with the Legion of Valor certificate. The Bronze Cross was presented and pinned by Lieutenant Kevin Teague.

Pictures and a write up of the event will be sent to the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. where Lauren’s name will be inscribed with others who have received this award.