NFA AF-JROTC Awards Ceremony | 2026
Newburgh Free Academy's AF-JROTC program held its annual awards celebration. Dozens of awards were distributed to the student cadets, including scholarships to support future studies. Highlights of the ceremony include performances by the Color Guard, distribution of a $20,000 scholarship to a senior entering the armed forces to continue their academic studies, recognition of those with the highest number of volunteer hours, the transition of student leadership, and cutting the celebratory cake with a saber.
This evening was a celebration of the countless hours our cadets invested in academics, leadership development, community service, drill competitions, color guard events, physical fitness, and supporting one another as members of the NFA AFJROTC family. Their commitment to excellence continues to make our unit one of the finest programs in the nation.
The incoming student Command Staff for the 2026-2027 school year:
Group Commander: C/Col Jimenez
Group Deputy Commander: C/Lt Col Abreu
Group Executive Officer: C/Maj Smith
Group Command Chief: C/CMSgt Fisher
Just last year, the group earned an Exceeds Standards rating during their annual inspection, with 0 discrepancies and meeting and exceeding standards in all areas of the checklist. The cadet portion of the checklist received Exceeding Standards in all 11 areas.
Additionally, this year, our NFA AFJROTC Color Guard placed in the Top 10 out of 36 teams in the Open Color Guard division at Armed Forces Drill Nationals in Daytona Beach, FL. Competing at this level for the first time and earning a spot among the best is by far an incredible accomplishment! Their performance represents the discipline, precision, and hard work these cadets bring every day to reach this achievement.
We remain thankful to all of the organizations, armed forces veterans, and community members who continue to support our scholars who have service to their community and country at the forefront of their goals beyond Academy Field.
NFA AF-JROTC is led by MSgt Christian Granda and MSgt Donald Carter with support from Ms. Francine Burks.
PHOTOS | NFA AF-JROTC Awards Ceremony | 2026
ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!
