Coral Glades JROTC Captain Nominated for Broward County Cadet of the Year

by News Staff May 14, 2024

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Coral Glades JROTC Captain Nominated for Broward County Cadet of the Year

Ashley Melo of Coral Glades High School. {David Volz}

Ashley Melo, a leader at Coral Glades High School, is a captain in the Army JROTC program and is one of seven candidates for Broward County Army JROTC cadet of the year.

Melo, a senior, loves JROTC and believes it offers many learning opportunities. She was captain of the color guard, which earned third place at the county level and third place at the state competition in Lakeland, Florida, on April 6.

Melo is also a member of the Coral Glades Band, serving as the captain of the woodwinds section. She is skilled in playing the piccolo, oboe, and French horn. Additionally, she maintains an impressive academic GPA of 4.8 and is currently enrolled in a robotics course through JROTC.

According to Melo, the JROTC program is a positive organization that offers many opportunities for success in one program.

“It is not just a military environment. I have learned many life skills, such as critical thinking. I improved my social skills, and I enjoyed leading the color guard. I recommend this program because it helps young people and teaches practical life skills,” she said.

On May 24, Melo will be honored at a Pompano Beach High School ceremony, where her position among the seven candidates will be revealed. This historic moment marks her as the first cadet from Coral Glades to receive this recognition.

Looking ahead, she is considering the University of Central Florida for her studies in environmental engineering. She is contemplating joining the ROTC program there, a testament to her continued commitment to service.

Senior Army Instructor Diedre Nevels has seen Melo become a successful leader.

“She led the color guard drills and has done well in JROTC,” said Nevels. “Melo has been very dedicated to the JROTC and is a good student. I am proud of her.”

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