Barbour County Students Graduate From The Mountaineer ChalleNGe Academy

The Mountaineer ChalleNGe Academy is pleased to announce Class 1-24 as the 62nd

class to complete this West Virginia National Guard Program. Commencement exercises were held Friday, June 14, at Camp Dawson in Kingwood. A total of 85 graduates from 34 counties across the State of West Virginia successfully completed the requirements for graduation. CSM James Jones congratulated the Cadets and gave the commencement address.

The following Cadets participated from Barbour County:

Cadet Gunner Thomas Haller, son of Mark Haller of Moatsville, was in Platoon 2. Cadet Haller was recognized for receiving the Mentorship, Instructor's List (2), Deputy Director's Distinction Award(3-D Award), Good Conduct Award, Health Award, Level One PT as well as obtaining the six Individual Values Recognition Ribbons. During their time at the Academy, Cadet Haller served in the following leadership positions: Platoon Leader, Asst. Platoon Leader (3).

Cadet Olivia Lynn Shelby Ray, daughter of Timothy Ray of Belington, was in Platoon 3. Cadet Ray was recognized for receiving the Instructor's List, Honor's List (2), Mentorship as well as obtaining the six Individual Values Recognition Ribbons. During their time at the Academy, Cadet Ray served in the following leadership positions: Asst. Platoon Leader.

Cadet Landon Skyy Westfall, son of Dallas Westfall of Volga and Mack Florida of Enville, TN, was in Platoon 4. Cadet Westfall was recognized for receiving the Instructor's List, Mentorship as well as obtaining the six Individual Values Recognition Ribbons.

All graduating Cadets have completed the residential phase of ChalleNGe, which includes activities in eight core component areas ranging from Service to Community to Employability Skills. Cadets in this class provided 3687.5 hours of Service to Community for such organizations as American Red Cross, Trout for Cheat, Camp Galilee, Girl Scouts of America, and Operation Gratitude. Following graduation, these Cadets will begin a one-year post-residential phase of ChalleNGe that includes placement activities in education and/or employment.

Applications are currently being accepted for Class 2-24 South that begins in October. Call toll-free at 1-800-529-7700 for more information.