On April 18, 2026, the Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) unit at Admiral Arthur W. Radford High School in Honolulu hosted its annual awards ceremony. The event served as a powerful tribute to the academic growth, self-discipline and leadership of the cadets, supported by a community of proud parents and veteran organizations.

Extraordinary Leadership: LCDR Romelda Coloma Sadiarin:
The success of the program is largely attributed to the tireless dedication of LCDR Romelda Coloma Sadiarin, the unit's senior instructor. Operating without assistant instructors, Sadiarin has invested significant overtime and care for the development of her cadets. Her solo leadership was evident in the seamless execution of the evening and the high caliber of the student body.

Community Recognition and Awards:
During the ceremony, I presented several awards on behalf of national and local organizations to recognize military and scholastic achievement:
Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) Citation & Medal
Oahu Veterans Council: Higher Education Scholarship Checks to two great students
American Legion Military Excellence Cadet LT Travis Aasen
American Legion Scholastic Excellence Cadet LTJG Sofronii Dimitrov
American Legion School Award Cadet LTJG Natalie Wilson
American Legion School Award (Honorable Mention) Cadet CPO Allison Martinez

A Traditional Conclusion:
The evening concluded with the Cadet Change of Command, a time-honored military tradition. This ceremony not only celebrated the accomplishments of the past year but also marked the official transition of leadership for the unit's future missions. It was a privilege to witness these young citizens excelling and preparing for their next chapters in higher learning and service.