In a proud tradition of recognizing excellence and leadership among its cadet corps, Fork Union Military Academy recently unveiled the standout cadets for the term. GySgt Charlie Coulter, the Commandant of Cadets, proudly announced the Cadet Leader and Cadet of the Term, recognizing their dedication, exemplary conduct, and outstanding leadership qualities.

For Term 5, the honorees are c/SFC Cameron Gray of Charlie Company, who has been named the Cadet Leader of the Term, and c/PVT Caleb Barber, from Bravo Company, who has been awarded the Cadet of the Term.

Cadet Gray, the son of Monique Gray, is a freshman from Windsor, Connecticut and is in his second year at the Academy.

Cadet Barber, a first-year cadet, is the son of Lisa and Christopher Barber of Maryville, Tennessee.

The selection process for these prestigious titles is rigorous and comprehensive. Each company conducts an internal review and nominates one cadet for each of the two categories. Category 1 encompasses cadets from Privates to Corporals, while Category 2 is designated for Cadet Sergeants to Captains.

The board, held on Wednesday, May 8, was composed of esteemed members, including Command Sergeant Major Glenn Sidwell and four senior cadets from the Battalion Staff. Cadets faced a thorough examination, donning their Class A uniforms adorned with all awards and decorations, as they were grilled on various aspects including the Academy’s history, core values, Cadet Regulations (Blue Book), leadership traits and the Honor Code.

Throughout the interview, candidates were evaluated across seven distinct areas, with a maximum of points allocated to each:

• Personal Appearance, Bearing, and Self-Confidence (max 20 points)
• Oral Expression and Conversation Skills (max 15 points)
• Knowledge of Current Events (world affairs) (max 15 points)
• Achievements-Academy Standing, Awards, and Demerits (max 20 points)
• Awareness of Military Subjects (max 15 points)
• Room and Bed/Wall-locker Displays (max 10 points)

For their exceptional performance across these criteria, both Cadet Coleman and Cadet Preston will be honored with a $25.00 gift card and the opportunity to participate in the Cadet/Leader of the Year board. This recognition not only celebrates their individual achievements but also serves as a testament to their commitment to excellence and leadership within the Fork Union Military Academy community.

“Congratulations to Cadet Gray and Cadet Barber on their well-deserved accolades, and may they continue to inspire their peers with their dedication and exemplary conduct,” said GySgt Coulter.