Tafuna High School JROTC Program triumphs again at the Island-Wide Drill Competition
Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Tafuna High School's Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) program, known for its impressive display of discipline and teamwork, clinched first place overall at the Island-Wide JROTC Drill Competition. The event, held at Fagaitua High School's gymnasium on March 28, 2024, was a testament to the unique skills and precision of the Tafuna High School team.
THS JROTC performed exceptionally in multiple categories, securing first-place victories in the Inspection Drill, Regulation Drill, and Exhibition Drill events. They also showed strong performance in the Color Guard event, placing second and proving their versatile skills and unwavering dedication.
Tafuna High School's Color Guard helped clinch first place overall at the Island-Wide JROTC Drill Competition. (L-R) Acania Puletasi; Charles Tauiliili (Captain); Ezekiel Toafa; Lafaele Leulu. [courtesy photo]
For Tafuna High School's JROTC program, this year's victory at the competition is not just a win but a continuation of their journey of consistent excellence and leadership in the JROTC community. The team's hard work, determination, and the guidance of their instructors and leaders have been instrumental in their success.
THS JROTC cadets and staff give special thanks to Principal Tutuila Togilau for her constant and continued support of the JROTC program. Her commitment to fostering leadership and teamwork among students has been a crucial element of the team's success.
Tafuna High School's Inspection team, one of the teams that helped clinch first place overall at the Island-Wide JROTC Drill Competition. Front Row:(L-R) Marlianna Enesa; Matagi Filoiali’i; Zetleydozeny Setu; Estherniva Palu; Joyce Nun; 2nd Row: (L-R) Kathrina Leitu; Terrence Penitani; Siliana Savini; Grace Sipa; Grace Ma Wong; 3rd Row: (L-R) Judith Felise-Ioka; Nandeleyah Isala; Leilani Moananu (Co-Captain); Faith Ioapo. Back Row: Charles Tauiliili (Captain) [Courtesy photo]
The Drill Team Captains and their teams were commended for their dedication and effort leading up to the competition.
The teams' success in the competition resulted from the tireless work of SFC Lei Solaita and MSG Acania Puletasi, who dedicated themselves to preparing all teams.
Due to the lack of covered space to conduct Drill practices, despite the rain and extremely hot days, both Army Instructors were out in the OMV field with cadets practicing and sharpening each team’s movements, commands, and march.
Tafuna High School's Regulation team, one of the teams that helped clinch first place overall at the Island-Wide JROTC Drill Competition. Standing far left: Faasala Sale (Captain); Front Row: (L-R) Wallace Vaigatolo; Saunoa Iuli; Nissi Pula ; Gwenavere Felise-Ioka; Benetta Roberts; Tristan Tufele; Middle Row: (L-R) Tūmamā Toelupe; Freedom Lolesio; Liz Ah Chong; Faapaia Aloisio; Charity Talisa; Back Row: (L-R) Maeli Reened Jr Maeli; Rebecca Isala; Talosaga Toese ; Fuatupe Magalei; Fa’amamata Ripley. [Courtesy photo]
The THS JROTC staff want to recognize the parents of all the drill teams for supporting their cadets, allowing them to stay after school and practice during the weekends. Your sacrifice has directly resulted in the THS JROTC Drill Teams’ wins.
The Island-Wide JROTC Drill Competition is a test of discipline and skill and a celebration of the values that JROTC programs strive to instill in cadets: leadership, citizenship, character development, and a sense of community. Tafuna High School's achievement in this year's competition is a shining example of these values.
As Tafuna High School's JROTC program basks in the glory of its well-earned victory, it also sets its sights on future challenges, ready to defend its title and continue its tradition of excellence. Warriors Lead the Way!