The East Union High JROTC program was part of Manteca Unified’s three-day Community Salute to Heroes celebration.

The close-out assembly was held last Thursday at the Dalben Center. Featured were U.S. Military members including MUSD Superintendent Clark Burke (Field Grade US Army Officer) and first responders from the Manteca Fire and Manteca Ambulance districts.

They joined students and staff to celebrate service, leadership and the everyday heroes who make a difference in the community, according to MUSD.

The Salute to Heroes assemblies held during the week was coordinated by Army Reserve Ambassador James Bernet.

During the ceremony held at EU, two students earned outstanding character and growth recognition – Jubilee Price (Citizenship Award) and Samuel Mendoza (Most Improved Award) were chosen by teachers and administrators for their service to education and commitment to grown.

Colonel John Tao, who is the longtime instructor for the East Union JROTC program, was selected for the Teacher Award.

Along with Bernet, MUSD also thanked Evangelo Morris for his work as a speaker during the campus visits. Bernet and Morris spoke to students about the importance of resilience, leadership, and becoming the best versions of themselves.