We e k ly B R E E Z E R e c ap Highpoint of Cape Coral residents observe Memorial Day

By FRAN THOMAS news@breezenewspapers com

Highpoint of Cape Coral residents observed Memorial Day early on Thursday with a visit from seven students from Mariner High School’s JROTC Leadership Academy The academy's students go out into the community often to fulfill their mission of becoming better citizens

According to Director of Sales and Marketing Nate Jackson, more than 33 veterans reside at Highpoint Their photos are proudly displayed and fill a whole wall off the lobby Some are World War II veterans; others fought in Korea or Vietnam

Major Bryan Williams, a 25-year veteran, supervises 650 cadets at Mariner They all attend daytime leadership classes About 150 of them participate in eight afterschool activities, and from those students come the ones trained to participate in community events

The ceremony at Highpoint began with the presentation of colors followed by an a cappella rendition of the national anthem by Cadet Greenland She was the only sophomore in the group of seniors and had been given only 12 hours notice to prepare to sing in front of a lobby full of residents Acquiring poise is one of the program’s many benefits

Next, four of the cadets demonstrated the proper way to fold the American flag as Cadet Williams, Chief of Staff, narrated the meaning of each fold

After learning about the meaning of the Missing Man or Fallen Comrade table at the JROTC Ball, the students asked if they could begin the practice in the community

Cadet Williams again described each element on the table One by one, flags were added to the table in honor of Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and fallen heroes of all branches As each flag was pre- sented, the cadet intoned “Remember ”

Earlier in the week, the students learned about Gold Star families and the significance of red poppies and taps Photos taken at this event along with a narrative were to be assembled into a storyboard and shown to classes on Friday

According to Major Williams, about three to five students from an average senior class of 50 go into the military after high school Of the cadets present at Highpoint, several were going to college under full ROTC scholarships after which they would join the military. All of the JROTC students are required to develop what they call Plan A for their lives Each of them already has a resume Most of this year’s graduating class are going to college or a trade school

Highpoint of Cape Coral is at 1701 Four Mile Cove Parkway Call 239-677-3969 for additional information