Cadet Ulrich shines at RFI! Details from Col. Hunt.
RFI is always a critical time at Fishburne. The school’s JROTC honor rating with distinction is at stake, a tradition that goes back well into the early 1920’s. Invariably the challenge of the occasion brings out the best in the cadet corps, and 2010 was no exception.
The entire corps gave a major effort and managed to secure yet another honor rating with distinction with the highest score of any of the 106 schools previously inspected this year. Needless to say, this collective achievement was the product of much individual skill and determination.
There is no better example of what the inspectors saw at Fishburne on March 3rd than the challenge faced that day by Cadet William Ulrich of Oregonia, OH.
FMS Senior Army Instructor LTC Robert Hunt described it this way: “During the RFI one of our cadets really stepped up and helped the school tremendously when it counted. Cadet William Ulrich showcased the leadership skills we hope to instill in our students while they are here at Fishburne.
“Cadet Ulrich is the first sophomore to be given the rank of First Sergeant. He participates on three JROTC teams: raiders, exhibition, and the leadership team. He had also been selected to be one of the 12 cadets designated as ‘curriculum knowledge experts’ for the RFI and was expected to be a part of the Hudgins Rifles Exhibition Drill Team demonstration, one of the important events in the overall inspection.”
The best-laid plans, of course, turn into last-minute challenges. Cadet SSG Patrick Guiffre, the Hudgins Rifles Drill Team Commander, was required to be absent for surgery and was unable to command his team. Colonel Hunt asked the team at large to volunteer someone who could step up as their interim leader. Cadet Ulrich was the unanimous choice, and he agreed to take on the challenge.
“Cadet Ulrich is a sophomore and not yet the most talented spinner, but his determination, dedication and commitment to the team and the JROTC program carried him through the event with great success. He took charge of the team during the abbreviated practices leading up to the RFI, and through his hard work and perseverance he prepared himself and the team for an outstanding performance.”
Mr. Buck Jenkins, the 4th Brigade inspector conducting the RFI, was so impressed with the precision and difficulty of the Hudgins Rifles’ presentation that he told them he felt they could compete and win at nationals. Cadet Ulrich thanked the team for supporting him throughout the process. When Cadet Guiffre returned, he said he had no doubts that Cadet First Sergeant Ulrich would step up in his absence and do a great job.
LTC Hunt concluded, “Cadet Ulrich has a bright future ahead of him here at FMS and he is one of the best JROTC cadets in the corps. He is highly respected by his subordinates, peers and superiors.”
FMS Communications
