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News

1st Platoon listening to Director Chris Stout.

Candidate to Cadet

August 8, 2024/General, News

As of August 4, the candidates have now completed the acclimation phase of the program.  After 2 weeks of training as candidates, they have earned the right to be called cadets.

Director Chris Stout stood in front of the candidates at the beginning of the Candidate to Cadet Ceremony as he applauded  the cadets for how far they have come over these first 2 weeks. He also encouraged them “to choose which difficulty you want to face.” 

The cadets were reminded from this point on, the expectations will only intensify. No longer were they mere candidates, testing the waters. Now they are full-fledged members of the leadership program, responsible for setting the example for those who would follow.

As the ceremony commenced, each cadet stepped forward to receive their certificate. They had come so far, but the true test was only just beginning.

In the weeks that follow, cadets will be pushed to their limits. Dawn-to-dusk training drills, intense physical fitness challenges, and rigorous academic courses will leave them feeling constantly exhausted, but they will develop a sense of camaraderie and determination that will give them the strength to push through. Cadets will draw strength from each other’s resolve. They have come too far to turn back now. 

The Candidate to Cadet was their moment to shine, as they watched a short video that captured a glimpse of all their hard work during acclimation.  They erupted in cheers as members of their platoon were shown on the video board.  

Now they get to show the world, and themselves, what they are made of. 

And they are ready.

2nd Platoon
August 8, 2024/General, News
Academic, Acclimation, Cadets, Challenge Program, Leadership, Military School, National Guard Youth Academy, Oklahoma Youth Military Academy, Teamwork

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National Guard Youth Challenge - Oklahoma
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Thunderbird Challenge
3 weeks ago
Thunderbird Challenge

Thunderbird Challenge Cycle 64 Graduation

Congratulations to our graduates: You've proven that with dedication and the right support, any obstacle can be overcome. Your families, instructors, and entire community are incredibly proud of what you've accomplished.

Each graduate represents a success story of determination and personal growth. They entered as candidates seeking direction and leave as confident young leaders ready to make their mark on the world.

We are thankful that at this graduation, we were honored to have two outstanding leaders address our graduates:

Major General Thomas H. Mancino, Adjutant General for Oklahoma, shared his wisdom and experience with our cadets. As Oklahoma's top military advisor to the Governor and leader of the Oklahoma National Guard, General Mancino brought valuable insights about service, leadership, and commitment to our ceremony.

Senator Ally Seifried (R-Claremore) inspired our graduates with her message about civic engagement and making a positive impact in their communities. As a proud ninth-generation Oklahoman and advocate for Oklahoma's youth, Senator Seifried's words resonated deeply with our graduating class.

Congratulations once again to our graduates and thank you to General Mancino and Senator Seifried for their inspiring words and continued support of Oklahoma's youth!

#thunderbirdchallengeprogram #cycle64 #nationalguardyouthchallengeprogram #NGYCP #Leadershiptraining #Thunderbirdlife
... See MoreSee Less

Thunderbird Challenge Cycle 64 Graduation

Congratulations to our graduates: Youve proven that with dedication and the right support, any obstacle can be overcome. Your families, instructors, and entire community are incredibly proud of what youve accomplished.

Each graduate represents a success story of determination and personal growth. They entered as candidates seeking direction and leave as confident young leaders ready to make their mark on the world.

We are thankful that at this graduation, we were honored to have two outstanding leaders address our graduates:

Major General Thomas H. Mancino, Adjutant General for Oklahoma, shared his wisdom and experience with our cadets. As Oklahomas top military advisor to the Governor and leader of the Oklahoma National Guard, General Mancino brought valuable insights about service, leadership, and commitment to our ceremony.

Senator Ally Seifried (R-Claremore) inspired our graduates with her message about civic engagement and making a positive impact in their communities. As a proud ninth-generation Oklahoman and advocate for Oklahomas youth, Senator Seifrieds words resonated deeply with our graduating class.

Congratulations once again to our graduates and thank you to General Mancino and Senator Seifried for their inspiring words and continued support of Oklahomas youth!

#thunderbirdchallengeprogram #cycle64 #nationalguardyouthchallengeprogram  #NGYCP #Leadershiptraining #Thunderbirdlife
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4 CommentsComment on Facebook

So proud of each and everyone of them. They gave it their all Sad to see them leave. They each have a piece of my heart.

It was a great ceremony!

Awesome ceremony

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