Laredo Independent School District recognized six outstanding JROTC students during the JROTC Honorable Cadet Ceremony at the Martin High School Library.
Helen Sifuentes and Daniel Valdez of Nixon High School, Ashley Adame and Sarai Salazar of Cigarroa High School, and Osvaldo Arriaga and Hope Sierra of Martin High School were named LISD’s Honorable Cadets for their qualities and leadership skills as cadets who demonstrate outstanding capabilities in their community through service, self-discipline, responsibility, respect, and character. The recognition was conducted by LISD’s ROTC Program and the LISD College, Career and Military Readiness Department.
LISD Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Roger Garcia, and Martin High School Principal Mario Mireles congratulated and addressed the cadets on the importance of leadership, citizenship, and teamwork.
Helen Sifuentes is a dedicated student and a proud member of JROTC. She joined the program because she admired the sharp, professional appearance of its members. JROTC has helped her become more organized and accountable, shaping her into a more disciplined individual. One of her most memorable experiences was attending summer camp, where she met new people and tried new activities.
In addition to JROTC, she is involved in the Spanish Honor Society, the Photography Club, and the Library Club. After high school, she plans to attend Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) to major in business and minor in military science. She looks forward to applying the skills she has gained through JROTC and her extracurricular activities to her future career.
Daniel Valdez is a dedicated student and proud member of several Nixon High School organizations. He joined JROTC to become more involved in his school and step out of his comfort zone. Seeing it as an opportunity to build character, develop leadership skills, and gain confidence, he quickly embraced the challenges it presented. The program has been a life-changing experience, helping him overcome shyness and social anxiety while teaching him the importance of facing his fears. His most memorable moment was completing a practice briefing in front of teachers and administrators—a nerve-wracking yet rewarding experience that strengthened his confidence.
Beyond JROTC, he is active in Student Council, the National Honor Society, and the Chess Club, as well as the Drill and Raider teams. He also dedicates time to volunteering at his church, assisting in various services, and playing drums in the choir. While his future plans are not set in stone, he is considering attending Texas A&M University to pursue a degree in wildlife biology, aiming to make a positive impact on the environment and his community.
Ashley Adame is a dedicated JROTC student at Cigarroa High School and the oldest sibling in her family, striving to set a good example. JROTC has helped her develop valuable skills, especially in motivating others to be better citizens. A highlight for her was being named "Honorable Cadet" on January 31, 2024, the same day her little sister was born. She treasures many experiences with her fellow cadets, including football games, Raider’s competitions, and JCLC. Ashley is the Toro Battalion Executive Officer, Raiders Commander, and President of the Yearbook Club.
Outside of JROTC, she runs her own beauty business with her parents' support and is involved in various other activities. She aspires to open a beauty salon, barber shop, and bakery—dreams inspired by her family, especially her father and grandmother. Ultimately, she hopes to pursue a career that blends her love for business and family.
Sarai Salazar is a dedicated JROTC student at Cigarroa High School. JROTC has helped her develop valuable skills, including overcoming stage fright and improving her organization and responsibility. Some of her favorite experiences include football games, Raider’s competitions, and the military ball, which have been even more special during her senior year with her sister, Genesis. One of her most memorable moments was attending JCLC in her sophomore year, where she gained valuable lessons and lifelong friendships.
In addition to serving as the S-4 of the Toro Battalion, she is involved in the swim team, Mystic Color Guard, UIL U.S. History, and Communities in Schools. She also manages the Toro soccer team and volunteers at her church and the Food Bank with her family.
Osvaldo Arriaga joined the JROTC program the summer before his freshman year. JROTC has impacted his life in many ways, both physically and mentally. Through the Raider Team, he has built strength, endurance, and teamwork skills. Mentally, he has grown in leadership, communication, and discipline. The program has provided opportunities to showcase his abilities, develop his confidence, and connect with peers who have become close friends.
Over the past three years, Osvaldo has actively participated in various JROTC activities, including Raiders, Honor Guard, Color Guard, and Drill Team. Currently, he serves as the Drill Commander. After graduating high school, he plans to attend Laredo College to earn an Associate's Degree in Diesel Engine Mechanics. Upon completing his degree, he aims to secure a job specializing in his field.
Hope Sierra joined the MHS JROTC program to gain military experience, build confidence, and develop the skills that have shaped who she is today. She also sought to become a more effective leader. Her most memorable experiences include traveling with fellow cadets to competitions and forming lasting friendships with amazing people from both past and present. In addition to JROTC, she participates in various extracurricular activities, such as UIL (Journalism, Ready Writing, Literary Criticism), Junior Achievement—where she teaches elementary students’ economics—and the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, which involves visiting local schools and engaging with students.
Hope plans to attend Austin Community College to complete her foundational courses before pursuing a degree in Communications. Ultimately, she aims to advocate for blind and visually impaired individuals, helping them overcome challenges and achieve success.
The Martin High School JROTC presented the colors, and MHS JROTC student led the Pledge of Allegiance. Guests enjoyed a delicious barbecue lunch which was prepared by Martin High School Culinary Arts students, under the direction of Carlota Romo and Melissa Campuzano.
Cadets from LISD’s three JROTC Programs are recognized every nine weeks. To be considered an Honorable Cadet, the student must submit a completed application with their information, resume, two letters of recommendation (non-JROTC Instructor) one recommendation letter from JROTC Instructor, essay, and cadet challenge score.
Cadets can get applications from the JROTC Instructors and counselors and must submit completed applications to their counselors.
For more information, please contact LISD College, Career and Military Readiness Coordinator, Mayra Garcia at 956-273-1863.