JROTC Cadets say thanks to Soldiers

Field Report

FORT WORTH, Texas – North Side High School Army JROTC Cadet Cristal Flores went to the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport hoping to thank soldiers as they headed back to Iraq and Afghanistan and give them the knowledge that they are appreciated.

Flores and dozens of other cadets, left the airport on Dec. 11 feeling inspired, proud and committed to serving their country.

“When I saw the troops leaving the airport to go back…at that moment, I thought of me being the one to leave the airport,” said Flores, a freshman North Side High School who hopes to pursue a military career after high school.

This is the second year North Side High School JROTC cadets have gone to the airport to greet troops returning from overseas and to thank troops headed back into dangerous locations,

including Iraq and Afghanistan. This year, the cadets passed out holiday cards made by students, teachers and staff at North Side High School in Fort Worth, Texas.

Many of the cadets said they were touched by the emotional reunions and goodbyes.

“At first it made me sad because there are thousands of people who grow up, join the Army, leave, and sometimes don’t come back,” said cadet Analyssa Lira, who is also a freshman at North Side