Cadet Colonel
Sydney Watson
Sydney Watson, serving GA-953 as Corps Commander, is a senior at Cherokee High. Her goal is for the cadets to be inspired by the opportunities they have and the teams they work with in JROTC. She has learned that with grit and determination the corps can complete hard tasks and see any challenge through to completion. An undivided unit, with focus on the simple goal of improvement, can prove unstoppable in achieving what is necessary. There is innate beauty in a group of people working together for a common cause that is larger than themselves and she considers herself lucky to have been able to inspire and be inspired by the cadets around her.
Private Pilot License
“It was an honor as well as a completely new learning experience to have gone through flight training under the Air Force JROTC‘s Flight Academy program,” said Sydney, her school’s JROTC student commander, adding it further inspired her to pursue a U.S. military service academy appointment. “Flying has instilled an understanding of the incredible possibilities and responsibilities of being a pilot, and I hope to expand these possibilities and responsibilities at the U.S. Air Force Academy, where I will be able to serve the country that provides such astounding opportunities.”
Riflery
Sydney’s been a member of the varsity AF JROTC Marksmanship team for three years. As a freshman, she was a member of the JV Marksmanship team. She enjoys shooting with a tightly knit team working to improve their skills and develop control, discipline, and concentration. She also enjoys working with the younger shooters in the corps to carry on the legacy of the Cherokee High School team. Being a member of the Air Force JROTC national champions in 2023 was a highlight of her marksmanship career.