Student Nomination Story

Being a part of the AFJROTC program at my high school has molded me into the person I am today. Before I joined the Corps in my Sophomore year, I was unfocused and without any real plans. My only inkling of what I wanted to be came from the fact that I wanted to serve in our military. So I fought with the counselors, who only saw the JROTC program as a failure and a waste of resources, to place me in the class. And it felt amazing to finally be welcome in a school where I had felt ostracized since I had transferred there in 7th grade. Major Blue welcomed me with open arms. He was the kindest, most compassionate, understanding, and helpful instructor I have had. He gave me something worth fighting for. I no longer was terrified of trying something new or being spontaneous. Major Blue helped me regain my pride and my confidence in who I was and how I looked and behaved. But when the news came that the JROTC director was shutting us down, it hit home for most cadets that this isn’t just parades and competitions. Unwilling to give up our second family, Major Blue and the Corps fought to recruit enough cadets to save our program. We started mailers and events and setting up meetings with the school board, the principal, the middle schools, and even a conference with the Colonel who gave the order to shut us down. Together, we were able to extend the program for another year and recruit students to join our little family. Major Blue has dedicated his time and effort into not just teaching his students, but helping them and leading them. Not many teachers spend 14+ hours each day to manage teams before school, an after school class, competition, staff meetings, community service, and all of our other extracurricular activities. He taught me the value of hard work, discipline, and teamwork.

Ivy Crawford

When I first started JROTC as a freshman I thought it would be tough with my instructors' main concern being discipline. After about a month I realized how wrong I was. Major Blue became a father I never knew I needed. He has supported all students when needed. He only gets paid for the 7 hours of school but he will stay for almost double that time just for his students. From him I have learned respect, in many forms. I have learned to respect myself and others, even if we don't see eye to eye. When I had to leave the class for my personal reasons, he made sure to check on me and make sure I was okay. Major Blue would never let a student feel worthless or unwanted. He spends everything moment of his life showing his students love. He inspires us to try our hardest. My freshman year I was nominated to go to DC for a national security conference. If it wasn't for Major I never would have had the courage to fly across country alone. When I started JROTC I couldn't even talk to a teacher without bursting into tears from my anxiety. Now, three years later, I was able to stand up in front of my entire school to talk about veterans. Major Blue is the most understanding and respectable person I know. If there is anyone who deserves this award it is Major Jon M. Blue. He has touched the hearts of hundreds of students in just the 12 years of teaching.

Sharon H Nettleton

To see more exceptional teacher nominees, visit The Honor Roll.