LFO JROTC helps Head Start students

Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe High School’s 125 Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets are making this holiday season brighter for 80 Catoosa County Head Start students by providing presents through the annual Christmas Babies event.

JROTC instructor Lt. Col. Paul Harwart said Head Start teachers at four locations in Catoosa County tell him that the JROTC gifts are often the only presents the children receive at Christmas.

“It brings tears to your eyes,” said Harwart, who retired after 30 years in the U.S. Army. “This is our 12th year helping Head Start students, but we began helping all four programs last year.”

He said since Mapco began placing boxes to collect toys at area stores last year the program has received a large increase in donations. This year’s drive brought in a truckload of gifts, he said, allowing each child to receive five gifts. He said the Fort Oglethorpe Lowe’s also donates Christmas decorations.

“It feels really good to give back to our community,” said Cadet Battalion Executive Officer Marlie Huckaby. “The Head Start children don’t have much.”

Cadet Bravo Company Cmdr. Brooke Walker said the Christmas party is something that shows the cadets care.

“It’s a really great opportunity to help children,” said Cadet Pfc. Falicia Blakemore, who wore an elf outfit. “I’m glad that JROTC helps children and that I’m participating in helping them.”

Harwart said JROTC is about citizenship with a military framework. He said the Christmas party puts leadership skills learned into practice as the cadets take the lead in bringing Christmas to children in Catoosa County.