Representatives from the Poplar Forest Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) visited E. C. Glass High School JROTC in May to recognize a superior performer, and to make a significant monetary contribution for JROTC training programs.
Cadet Chief Master Sergeant Shiloh Sooklal accepted a $1,100 donation to the ECG JROTC cadet program fund, and also accepted the DAR JROTC medal. Sooklal was nominated and selected for the prestigious award based on demonstrated loyalty and patriotism, according to Poplar Forest DAR Chapter Regent Jan Gray. “We were thrilled to recognize Shiloh and present ECG AFJROTC with this check to help defray military camp expenses,” she said.
According to Senior Aerospace Science Instructor Lt. Col. Leslie Pratt this donation will have a major impact on the program. “We’ve never had more than 12 people attend summer training in years past,” he said, “But because of DAR’s help, we’re able to send 18 this year. This donation is substantial both for the cadets and the program.”
Sam Brunson of the DAR said. “We witnessed a presentation of colors by JROTC at Memorial Day last year and were so impressed with the precision and pride shown in the display of the American Flag, we decided to step in and fill some of the budget shortfalls.”
Sooklal said she was honored to be selected for her medal. “The DAR is a highly respected organization, and I’m honored to be associated with them this way,” she said. “I was also honored to accept this check on behalf of our cadet corps. Expanding the summer camp experience to so many more people is a great thing.”
“Cadet Sooklal stood out for her exceptional service and commitment to the program,” Gray said. “The medal represents the recognition of high achievement in JROTC with special emphasis on Citizenship, Patriotism, and Americanism.”
According to DAR member Katherine Stewart, the DAR is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women's service organization which was founded in 1890. “The DAR is dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America's future through better education for children,” she explained.