The annual change of command occurred for the Landrum Cardinal Battalion on Dec. 20, and the new leaders anticipate a meaningful year of work and camaraderie at Landrum High School in 2014.
“I know it’s going to be a lot of work, but I am happy to be doing it,” said Nick Kniffin, incoming battalion commander. “It really helps build character for everyone.”
The outgoing commander, Holly Rickett, will be available during the spring semester as a mentor and guide to Kniffin and the battalion.
“Being a leader in this group means a lot to me,” Rickett said. “I strive to lead by example. I mostly work with my staff, and they work with the cadets. ROTC has taught me a great deal about many things in life. For example, I used to procrastinate, but I have learned that random things will arise, and I don’t procrastinate the way I once did.”
Rickett has been considering the military for her future.
Kniffin’s brother, A.J. Kniffin, previously served as commander for the Landrum Cardinal Battalion, and he currently attends the Citadel. Not all students in ROTC choose military careers, though.
“Our mission is to motivate young people to be better citizens,” said Lt. Col. Robert Sanders, teacher. “I enjoy working with them. I like to think we are taking care of them by teaching them to take care of themselves.”
Sanders attended West Point, and he inspires the battalion to be their best and work hard, Rickett said.
“It’s a character development program,” Sanders said. “If we’re doing it right, the students will mature and grow in self-discipline, team-building and teamwork as they learn how to get along in group projects. They develop values and citizenship.”
The group participates in numerous community projects. Some of them participate in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, helping younger people. Each platoon has certain responsibilities.
The flag detail puts the flag up at the school every morning and lowers the flag with appropriate respect at the end of the day.
“Lt. Col. Sanders is like a father to us,” said Stephanie Houle, JROTC flag detail leader. “We learn leadership and life skills, and we support each other like a family.”
Sanders said the students in ROTC developed not only physical fitness, but also a strong work ethic and camaraderie.
“Fitness is more than physical,” he said. “When students do better here, they will do better in all their classes and will be better people.”Change of command occurs for Landrum Cardinal Battalion