Bardstown Middle and High School students were recognized for their leadership, service, and outstanding achievements during the Air Force JROTC Awards Banquet held on Friday, April 17.
The annual ceremony celebrates cadets who exemplify the core values of the Air Force JROTC program—integrity, service, and excellence—alongside peers from Nelson County and Thomas Nelson High Schools through the district’s crosstown agreement.
Several Bardstown cadets earned top honors:
- Outstanding Cadet Ribbon
- 1st Year: Emma Crume
- 3rd Year: Christian Brown
- Tuskegee Airmen Award
- Alondra Cortes
- Military Order of the Purple Heart Award
- Joseph Cooper
- Reserve Organization of America Award
- Owen Hayes
- Daughters of the American Revolution Award
- Gabriella Shultz
- Silver Valor Award
- Erasto Jaime
Erasto Jaime received the prestigious Silver Valor Award for his heroic actions in saving his brother from serious injury. When his brother’s hoodie caught fire, Erasto acted quickly, removing the burning clothing and extinguishing the flames using a nearby water source. His bravery prevented further harm.
In addition to individual honors, cadets were recognized for their commitment to the program. Gabriella Shultz and Joseph Cooper each earned the AFJROTC Certificate of Completion for three years of participation.
The ceremony also marked an important leadership transition. In keeping with military tradition, outgoing cadet leaders passed the torch to the next generation. Senior Gabriella Shultz, who served as Group Commander for KY-20003 during the 2025–26 school year, officially handed over leadership as she prepares for her next chapter with the US Air Force. Shultz will attend basic training in Lackland Air Force Base in Texas to begin her career as a loadmaster. Joseph Cooper served in a key leadership role as Operations Squadron Commander. Cooper has enlisted with the Army National Guard with a military occupational speciality of 31B (military police). He plans to become a state trooper.
Through Bardstown City Schools’ JROTC crosstown agreement, Bardstown High School and Bardstown Middle School students have the opportunity to participate in the Air Force JROTC program hosted at Nelson County High School. This partnership continues to provide valuable leadership experiences and real-world skills that prepare students for success beyond high school.
Bardstown City Schools is proud of these cadets for their dedication, courage, and commitment to excellence.
