Editor,

Today I had the honor of attending my daughter’s first NJROTC event in Snohomish, comprised of about six to seven different schools from around the Sound. She is on the shooting team, but there was so much more at that event, which is the reason for this letter.

I must first say congratulations to our young men and women that put forth so much effort to be a part of this organization. I witnessed some very eager, professional and excited kids represent Oak Harbor High School and themselves in such a manner that would make any member of this community proud. From the shooting team, armed and unarmed drill team, physical fitness team and all the others I’m not even aware of, they all excelled tremendously. I guess that it shouldn’t surprise me how well they did, or how they carried themselves, but it did.

Just the level of professionalism, attention to detail and personal accountability they have at this age and point in their lives is nothing short of amazing. I would also like to say thank you to their coaches, teachers, mentors and parents who put the time in to help these kids excel. You have all done a tremendous job!

If any of you have the chance to attend one of these events or support them in any way, I highly recommend it. You will not be disappointed.

Oak Harbor’s team came away with an astonishing amount of medals and trophies in today’s event, and it was a direct reflection on their leadership and the support that the Navy, the community and the school provides them.

I was a very proud father today. But also a very proud Oak Harbor graduate, veteran and a proud American. Well done to all of you!

Troy Crossley

Oak Harbor